Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are undergoing terminal changes at key airports across the United States, bringing themselves closer not only to each other but also to other members of the Oneworld alliance following their merger last year.
On Tuesday, Hawaiian Airlines transitioned its operations to Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), moving from the previous Terminal 4.
Alaska Airlines plans to join Hawaiian in Terminal 8 by October, as announced on Tuesday by the Seattle-based airline.
These terminal changes at JFK will enhance the convenience for both airlines and their customers, as they will be positioned near major Oneworld carriers, including American Airlines and British Airways.
As a current member of Oneworld, Alaska Airlines is joined by Hawaiian Airlines, which is set to fully integrate into the alliance by 2026 after being acquired by Alaska’s parent company in 2024.
But the terminal moves aren’t limited to JFK.
Hawaiian Airlines’ New Terminal at LAX
On the same day, Hawaiian Airlines also switched terminals at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The airline has moved its operations from the Tom Bradley International Terminal to Terminal 6, where it will now share space with Alaska Airlines.
This relocation puts Hawaiian’s travelers closer to Alaska’s gates and the Alaska Lounge located within the terminal.
Hawaiian Airlines provides service from LAX to various destinations in Hawaii, including Honolulu, Maui, Kaua’i, and Kona.
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Although Alaska and Hawaiian remain distinct airline brands, behind-the-scenes collaboration allows for a unified operation at LAX and other airports, enhancing efficiency and ensuring smoother connections for travelers between the two carriers.
Expanding at Other Major Airports
Hawaiian Airlines has also moved its gates at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to be alongside Alaska in the newly renovated Harvey Milk Terminal 1 and is similarly located near Alaska at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
Plans are in place for both airlines to consolidate operations in Sacramento, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas by year-end.
Joint Operations at JFK T8
The new terminal at JFK for Hawaiian (and later Alaska) is set to provide travelers with more than just seamless connections to Oneworld partners such as Iberia, Japan Airlines, and Finnair.
Travelers will have access to Oneworld lounge facilities within the terminal.
First-class passengers flying over 2,000 miles from JFK will enjoy access to the American Airlines Admirals Club, and those in premium cabins with lie-flat seats can access the Greenwich Lounge operated jointly by American and British Airways.
While not the most luxurious space at JFK, Terminal 8’s facilities offer enhanced amenities compared to many of American’s standard lounges.
Conclusion
These terminal changes signify a deepening partnership between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines. The two airlines are gearing up to introduce a combined loyalty program soon and have already implemented reciprocal benefits for Hawaiian Miles and Alaska Mileage Plan members.
Next month, they will also announce Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Alaska’s primary hub, as a new global center for both airlines, including Hawaiian-operated flights to Tokyo’s Narita Airport (NRT).
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