Alaska Airlines is making a major long-term investment in Hawaiian Airlines following its $1.9 billion acquisition, confirming that the iconic Hawaiian brand will remain active instead of disappearing after the merger. The airline group has unveiled the Kahu’ewai Hawai’i Investment Plan, a five-year initiative worth $600 million aimed at modernizing travel across the Hawaiian Islands.
The investment plan includes major airport upgrades at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, along with airports in Lihue, Kahului, Kona, and Hilo. Renovations will feature redesigned lobby and gate areas, improved seating, and additional charging stations for travelers. Hawaiian Airlines also plans to open a new 10,600-square-foot premium lounge at Honolulu’s Mauka Concourse in Terminal 1 by the end of 2027.
Hawaiian’s long-haul fleet is also set for significant improvements. Beginning in 2028, the airline’s Airbus A330-200 aircraft will receive completely redesigned interiors featuring new first-class suites, a premium economy cabin, upgraded seating, and free Starlink Wi-Fi connectivity. Alaska Air Group is additionally acquiring three more A330 aircraft to support long-term operations.
Although Alaska and Hawaiian now operate under a single FAA certificate and passenger service system, the company has chosen to preserve Hawaiian Airlines as a standalone brand. The carrier also officially joined the oneworld alliance on 22 April 2026, giving passengers access to nearly 1,000 destinations and hundreds of premium lounges worldwide. The move represents one of the largest investments ever made in preserving a historic US airline brand dating back to 1929.