Booking & Website/App Experience with Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4/5
Booking flights with Hawaiian Airlines is a relatively seamless process, whether you choose to do so through their website or mobile app. The company has invested in building a user-friendly interface for both platforms, providing customers with intuitive tools to plan their trips. The booking process on both platforms is straightforward, allowing passengers to search for flights based on dates, prices, and other preferences.
Website Experience
The Hawaiian Airlines website is clean, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. The homepage prominently displays flight search options, along with helpful links to travel tips, booking tools, and special offers. The search engine lets you filter flights based on departure/arrival airports, travel dates, and the class of service, making it easy to book a trip.
Once you select a flight, the website takes you through the various options available, including seat selection, additional baggage allowance, and meal preferences. You can also opt to add extra services such as travel insurance and car rentals during the booking process. Hawaiian Airlines has partnered with popular service providers for additional options, which can be a nice touch for travelers looking for a one-stop-shop experience.
App Experience
The Hawaiian Airlines app is an extension of the website experience, offering much of the same functionality, albeit in a more portable format. The app allows you to book flights, check in for flights, manage your reservations, and track your flight status in real time. The app’s interface is sleek, making navigation easy for frequent users. However, there have been reports of occasional glitches, especially when updating or modifying bookings. Some users have also mentioned that notifications about flight changes and boarding gate information could be more reliable and prompt, as there have been instances of delays in pushing notifications to users.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use website and app.
- Helpful filters for choosing flights and add-ons.
- Smooth booking process.
Cons:
- The app may have occasional glitches, particularly with reservation changes.
- Some users report delays in push notifications.
Rating: 4/5
Check-in Process with Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4/5
Hawaiian Airlines offers multiple check-in options for customers, making it easy to choose the most convenient method for their needs. Online check-in, available 24 hours prior to departure, is a simple and efficient process that allows passengers to select their seats, enter frequent flyer information, and download boarding passes either to their phones or print them out.
Online Check-in
The online check-in process on both the website and the app is user-friendly. You can easily check in for flights, view available seat selections, and add extra services like baggage or pre-order meals. If you’re traveling with carry-on luggage, the process is incredibly smooth, and you can simply proceed directly to security after completing the check-in process. However, some passengers have found that managing booking changes or rebooking options via the website or app can be a bit cumbersome, especially if changes need to be made shortly before departure.
Airport Check-in
At the airport, Hawaiian Airlines provides both self-service kiosks and check-in counters with airline staff to assist travelers. The self-service kiosks, which are available in many airports, are quick and easy to use, allowing you to check in, print your boarding pass, and drop off any checked luggage. While there are generally plenty of check-in counters staffed by Hawaiian Airlines employees, passengers have sometimes reported delays during peak travel times.
A common complaint at busy airports is the lack of clear signage directing passengers to check-in counters or bag drop locations. This can sometimes cause confusion, especially for first-time travelers. However, the majority of travelers report that Hawaiian Airlines staff are friendly and helpful, providing guidance when necessary.
Pros:
- Online check-in is available 24 hours in advance.
- Self-service kiosks are available in most airports.
- Friendly, helpful staff at check-in counters.
Cons:
- Occasional delays during busy travel periods.
- Lack of clear signage in certain airports.
Rating: 4/5
Airport Experience for Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4.5/5
Hawaiian Airlines creates an airport experience that stands out for its sense of hospitality, which ties into the airline’s overall brand philosophy of delivering the “Aloha Spirit” from the moment you step into the airport. This unique atmosphere is a big part of what sets Hawaiian Airlines apart.
Airport Facilities
In Honolulu, the airline operates out of Terminal 2, which is well-maintained and provides a range of amenities. This includes comfortable seating, plenty of charging stations, free Wi-Fi, and several shops and eateries offering local Hawaiian products. The airport is relatively clean, spacious, and designed with an open, tropical feel, which provides a relaxing atmosphere for travelers.
At other airports, Hawaiian Airlines maintains a similar approach, although the experience can vary slightly depending on the location. Some passengers have reported that Hawaiian Airlines’ gate areas at non-Hawaii airports can feel crowded and lacking in amenities. The airline generally offers priority boarding for premium passengers, ensuring a smoother boarding process.
Customer Service at the Airport
Hawaiian Airlines is widely known for its excellent customer service, and this is evident at the airport as well. Staff are attentive, friendly, and eager to assist travelers in any way possible. Many customers have praised the Hawaiian Airlines team for making the airport experience feel welcoming, even during stressful travel situations.
Pros:
- Relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at the airport.
- Priority boarding available for premium passengers.
- Friendly and helpful staff.
Cons:
- Some airports experience overcrowding during peak travel periods.
Rating: 4.5/5
Punctuality of Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4/5
Hawaiian Airlines generally enjoys a strong reputation when it comes to flight punctuality, with many passengers reporting that their flights depart and arrive on time. The airline has a good track record for minimizing delays and cancellations, particularly on inter-island flights.
Flight Delays
While the airline’s punctuality rate is strong, weather conditions—such as storms and heavy rains—can occasionally cause delays, especially on inter-island routes. In these instances, Hawaiian Airlines is typically proactive in keeping passengers informed, providing updates via email, app notifications, and airport announcements. When delays do occur, Hawaiian Airlines staff are known for offering compensation or alternative arrangements when necessary, which is a positive aspect of their service.
On-time Performance
Hawaiian Airlines performs well in terms of on-time arrivals and departures. The airline tends to maintain a good level of efficiency, especially on direct flights to and from Hawaii. For example, flights between major US mainland cities and Hawaii tend to have fewer delays, as these routes are less likely to be affected by unpredictable weather patterns.
Pros:
- Strong on-time performance.
- Proactive communication during delays.
Cons:
- Weather-related delays can occasionally disrupt flights.
Rating: 4/5
In-flight Comfort & Cleanliness of Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4/5
When it comes to in-flight comfort, Hawaiian Airlines excels in offering passengers a comfortable flying experience. Whether you’re flying in economy or first class, the airline provides spacious seating and clean cabins, enhancing the overall in-flight experience.
Seating
Seats on Hawaiian Airlines are known for their comfort, with many passengers praising the generous legroom in both economy and premium cabins. In premium cabins, travelers can expect a higher level of comfort, with reclining seats, more space, and better overall service. However, some travelers in economy class have noted that the seats can feel a bit tight on longer flights, which can be a concern for taller passengers.
Cleanliness
The airline maintains high standards of cleanliness throughout its fleet, with clean restrooms, fresh linens, and neat cabins. Passengers often praise the cabin crew for regularly cleaning and tidying up the aircraft between flights.
Pros:
- Spacious seating in both economy and premium classes.
- Clean and well-maintained cabins.
Cons:
- Economy seats may feel tight on long-haul flights.
Rating: 4/5
In-flight Services of Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4.5/5
Hawaiian Airlines’ in-flight service stands out as one of the strongest aspects of their operation. The cabin crew is renowned for being friendly, courteous, and professional, making passengers feel welcomed and well cared for during their flight.
Food & Beverage
Hawaiian Airlines offers complimentary snacks and beverages on all flights, which is a pleasant bonus, especially compared to many other U.S. carriers. In addition to the usual drinks, Hawaiian Airlines serves unique beverages such as Hawaiian juices and tropical cocktails, giving a sense of the islands. Meals in premium cabins are generally more substantial, with passengers receiving a selection of Hawaiian-inspired dishes. However, in economy class, meal choices are limited, with passengers reporting that the meals could use more variety. That said, the meals are generally well-prepared, fresh, and flavorful.
Entertainment
The airline offers a range of in-flight entertainment options, including movies, TV shows, music, and even games. The screens are generally large and offer a good selection of titles, with some Hawaiian-themed programming available. The entertainment system is easy to navigate, and the quality of the sound and visuals is typically high.
Pros:
- Excellent service from friendly cabin crew.
- Complimentary snacks and beverages, with tropical drinks.
- Hawaiian-themed entertainment options.
Cons:
- Limited meal options in economy class.
- Premium meal service could offer more variety.
Rating: 4.5/5
Baggage Handling of Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 3.5/5
Hawaiian Airlines generally handles baggage well, with most passengers receiving their checked luggage on time and in good condition. However, there are occasional reports of mishandled luggage, particularly during busy travel seasons or on inter-island flights.
Baggage Delivery
Most travelers report that baggage claim is relatively smooth and quick, particularly on flights from major mainland cities to Hawaii. However, on some of the smaller inter-island flights, there can be a longer wait for checked luggage to appear at the carousel. This is due to smaller baggage handling facilities at regional airports.
Baggage Fees
Hawaiian Airlines charges for checked baggage on most flights, with the fees typically aligning with industry standards. Passengers flying in first class or those who have status in the airline’s loyalty program enjoy free checked baggage, which is a nice perk.
Pros:
- Reliable baggage handling for most flights.
- Free checked baggage for premium class passengers.
Cons:
- Baggage delays on inter-island flights.
- Occasional mishandling of luggage during peak seasons.
Rating: 3.5/5
Value for Money of Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4/5
Hawaiian Airlines offers good value for money, especially when flying between Hawaii and mainland U.S. cities. While the base fare can sometimes be slightly higher than budget airlines, the level of service, comfort, and extras like free snacks, beverages, and entertainment more than make up for the price difference.
Ticket Prices
Hawaiian Airlines’ ticket prices are competitive, particularly when flying between Hawaii and the U.S. mainland. Special deals and seasonal offers are often available, and the airline offers discounts for those booking early. Additionally, the ability to add extras like extra baggage or meals at a reasonable cost adds value to the overall experience.
Frequent Flyer Program
The HawaiianMiles program is a strong feature for loyal passengers, providing various benefits like priority boarding, extra baggage allowances, and access to special deals and promotions. For regular travelers to Hawaii, this is a great way to earn points and enjoy additional perks.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing, especially for inter-island flights.
- Strong frequent flyer program with good benefits.
Cons:
- Additional fees for checked baggage and seat selection.
- Somewhat higher base fares for international routes.
Rating: 4/5
Overall Experience of Hawaiian Airlines
Rating: 4.2/5
Hawaiian Airlines offers a solid and generally positive flying experience, with an emphasis on comfort, service, and a relaxed Hawaiian atmosphere. The airline stands out for its friendly staff, enjoyable in-flight services, and high levels of customer care. While there are some areas that could use improvement, such as baggage handling and occasional flight delays, the overall experience is still highly regarded by most passengers.
Final Verdict:
Rating: 4/5
Hawaiian Airlines is an excellent choice for travelers heading to or from Hawaii. With its relaxed atmosphere, attentive service, and generous in-flight amenities, it delivers a top-notch experience, especially for those looking to capture a taste of Hawaiian hospitality. While there are minor areas of concern, such as baggage handling and occasional glitches with the app, these issues do not detract from the overall quality of service. For those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and welcoming airline for their Hawaii travels, Hawaiian Airlines remains a standout option.