Hawaiian Airlines is launching an extensive enhancement initiative for its Airbus A330 fleet, under the $600 million Kahuʻewai Hawai’i Investment Plan. This five-year plan follows the airline’s acquisition by Alaska Airlines and aims to modernize the in-flight experience and improve airport facilities.
The investment encompasses over $600 million directed toward upgrading the guest experience at several Hawaiian airports, including Honolulu, Lihuʻe, Kahului, Kona, and Hilo. Enhancements will include renovations of lobbies and gates, along with the introduction of a new premium lounge at Honolulu International Airport. Additionally, the airline plans to upgrade its digital services with improvements to its app and website and enhance self-service technology for staff.
In terms of cabin upgrades, every A330 aircraft based in Honolulu will undergo a comprehensive interior refresh, featuring new seating, carpets, and lighting. First-class seating will be transformed into suites, and a new premium economy cabin will be added. Economy sections will be improved with four rows of wider reclining seats for added comfort and privacy. The inflight entertainment system will be upgraded to include Bluetooth compatibility, high-definition screens, and an expanded library of content. The A330 fleet will also benefit from fast, free WiFi provided by Starlink.
Currently, Hawaiian Airlines operates a fleet of 24 Airbus A330-200s, which have been in service for an average of 13 years. The airline has started aligning its product offerings and systems to integrate more closely with Alaska Airlines following the sale, which occurred in September 2024. This move has resulted in reduced financial losses, but corporate filings indicate a strategic shift in operations. The fleet plan outlines a stable count of A330 aircraft until 2027, with a planned retirement of four A330s by 2028.
This timing is significant, as the airline is investing in modernizing its existing aircraft while simultaneously reconfiguring its overall fleet mix to incorporate different aircraft types like the Boeing 787-10 Dreamliners, which will enter service in 2028.
Passengers can expect to see improvements in the A330s very shortly, witnessing upgraded cabins, new suite-style first class seating, enhanced dining options, and on-demand entertainment capabilities. Airport facilities in the aforementioned locations will also be refreshed, improving the overall travel experience.
With the upcoming fleet transitions and enhancements, the overall experience for travelers to and from Hawaii is set to improve significantly. As Hawaiian Airlines prepares to join the oneworld Alliance in April 2026, these developments indicate a positive evolution in how the airline operates, aiming to meet the needs of modern travelers while aligning with Alaska Airlines’ broader network strategies.