Leaders from Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines discussed the potential joining of the two airlines in a series of community conversations across the state.

In January and February, the two airlines co-hosted a series of luncheon discussions with members of Hawaiʻi’s business community. Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci, Alaska Airlines Regional President – Hawaiʻi/Pacific Joe Sprague, and Hawaiian Airlines CEO Peter Ingram answered questions from attendees on how the combination will increase competition and benefit consumers, create a strong loyalty program and preserve union jobs in Hawaiʻi.

The luncheons were held in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi, Kauaʻi Chamber of Commerce, Maui Chamber of Commerce, Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce, Hawaiʻi Island Chamber of Commerce and Japanese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Hawaiʻi.

Alaska Airlines leaders also visited Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi to meet with community leaders and discuss ongoing challenges residents face in accessing reliable air transportation. While airport limitations prevent both Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines from flying to the two rural islands, Alaska Airlines is committed to lending its expertise on safety, operations and outreach.