Hawaiian Airlines Creates $100,000 Scholarship Fund for Hawai‘i Residents Attending Arizona State University’s IT Program

January 10, 2023
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
5 min read

HONOLULU – Hawaiian Airlines is encouraging Hawai‘i students to pursue careers in information technology with the establishment of a $100,000 scholarship fund in partnership with Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business. The Hawaiian Airlines New Horizons Scholarship will provide $10,000 awards each year for up to two undergraduate students enrolling in the school’s Information Systems program, starting in the fall 2023 semester.

“Information technology touches every aspect of Hawaiian Airlines. We will continue to grow our technology team with a focus on improving our operations and the guest experience,” said John Jacobi, senior vice president and chief information officer at Hawaiian Airlines. “We are delighted to partner with Arizona State’s exceptional IT program and offer Hawai‘i students a unique opportunity to succeed in this exciting field. Of course, we also hope graduates will consider building a career right here at home with our airline.”

Hawaiian – which has provided nonstop flights between Phoenix and Honolulu for two decades and, in 2020, opened a Technology Center in Tempe – has developed a strong relationship with Arizona State University and area colleges to support the school-to-career pipeline, including via a summer internship program.

“We are incredibly grateful for this new scholarship to support our students from Hawai’i in partnership with Hawaiian Airlines,” said Ohad Kadan, dean of the W. P. Carey School of Business. “This partnership aligns well with our vision of providing access to excellent and innovative business education.”

The one-year scholarship is open to juniors and seniors carrying a 3.0 GPA or higher and whose primary residence is in Hawai‘i. Applications must be submitted to Arizona State University on or before Feb. 1, 2023. More information is available here.

Hawaiian’s IT team of nearly 300 employees – out of a 7,000-plus workforce – includes software engineers, architects, database managers, business analysts, and many other positions.

Hawaiian’s scholarship at Arizona State University adds to the carrier’s portfolio of workforce development initiatives. Last summer, Hawai‘i’s hometown carrier announced an innovative program with Honolulu Community College in which airline mechanics teach classes for the school’s Aeronautics Maintenance Program. In September, Hawaiian joined the University of Hawai‘i’s IT/Cyber Leap-Start Experience Excelerator Program to welcome students into its operations and provide valuable on-the-job training.

Ranked as the top employer in the state of Hawai‘i last year by Forbes, Hawaiian is aggressively recruiting for hundreds of positions, including in IT. Click here to browse job openings. Internship information is available here.

About Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business

The W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University is the largest and one of the top-ranked business schools in the United States. The school is internationally regarded for its research productivity and its distinguished faculty members, including a Nobel Prize winner. Students come from more than 100 countries, and W. P. Carey is represented by alumni in more than 160 countries. Visit www.wpcarey.asu.edu.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian^® has led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for each of the past 18 years (2004-2021) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation and consumer surveys by Condé Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor have placed Hawaiian among the top of all domestic airlines serving Hawaiʻi. In 2022, the carrier topped Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best list as the No. 1 U.S. airline and was named Hawaiʻi's best employer by Forbes.

Now in its 94th year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawaiʻi's biggest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers approximately 130 daily flights within the Hawaiian Islands, daily nonstop flights between Hawaiʻi and 15 U.S. gateway cities – more than any other airline – as well as service connecting Honolulu and American Samoa, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea and Tahiti.

The airline is committed to connecting people with aloha by offering complimentary meals for all guests on transpacific routes and the convenience of no change fees on Main Cabin and Premium Cabin seats. HawaiianMiles members also enjoy flexibility with miles that never expire. As Hawai‘i’s hometown airline, Hawaiian encourages guests to Travel Pono and experience the islands safely and respectfully.

Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: HA). Additional information is available at HawaiianAirlines.com. Follow Hawaiian’s Twitter updates (@HawaiianAir), become a fan on Facebook (Hawaiian Airlines), and follow us on Instagram (hawaiianairlines). For career postings and updates, follow Hawaiian’s LinkedIn page.

For media inquiries, please visit Hawaiian Airlines’ online newsroom.

8 best-kept destinations you should fly to in 2023

January 6, 2023
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

Whether you’re thinking about traveling to a beloved spot or finally checking off a bucket list destination, the question is not whether to take a trip, but rather where to go. We’ve got just the places for you to visit this year and the best way of getting you there!

Austin, Texas

Austin is packed with things to do like paddling next to the magnificent city, live music, outstanding places to eat, and enjoying its general weirdness.

Book now

El Paso, Texas

With a growing list of spots to grab a bite, entertainment and more, El Paso is worth getting to know. It’s also a gateway to some pretty cool places, just under four hours, including White Sands National Park, Big Bend and Marfa, an eccentric small town, known for its art installations like Prada Marfa and mysterious lights at night.

Book now

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Don’t miss spring’s wildflowers in Grand Teton National Park and hit the slopes at nearby ski resorts open November-April, best ski days tend to be February-March.

Book now

Medford, Oregon

Located in southern Oregon, Medford has many paths to take to adventure from excursions down the Rogue River to sights at Crater Lake National Park and it’s also a great starting point to drive the scenic highway to the Redwood Forest.

Book now

Nome, Alaska

Head to Nome in early to mid-March to spot the northern lights during peak viewing season.

Book now

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka has dozens of superb hiking trails in the Tongass National Forest that offer unique opportunities to spot eagles, bears, spawning salmon, and the breath-taking vistas of “wild” Alaska, it’s actually the largest national forest in the United States.

Book now

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

For some of the best epic fluffy powder runs for downhill skiing and snowboarding, head to Steamboat Springs from November to April, with the best time usually being right after the holidays and February through mid-March.

Book now

Zihuatanejo, Mexico

Zihuatanejo or Zihua — as the locals call it — is where you go to unwind when you want to leave the world behind for a bit. It’s a sleepy off-the-beaten-path beach town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast full of sea life, pristine beaches and serene views.

Book now

Jason Berry returns to Alaska Air Group as Horizon Air’s senior vice president of operations

January 5, 2023
Other News
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

Alaska Air Group subsidiary Horizon Air has named 27-year industry veteran Jason Berry as senior vice president of operations.

Berry rejoins Alaska Air Group after two years as vice president of cargo at Air Canada.

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Jason back,” said Horizon Air President Joe Sprague. “Adding talented operational leaders like Jason is great for our business and it’s important for our long-term success at Horizon and Alaska. On a personal level, he is a fantastic person, he ‘gets’ Horizon and he knows our culture, and I’m excited to work with him again.”

Jason Berry returns to Alaska Air Group as Horizon Air’s senior vice president of operations.

Horizon Air has a reputation for operational excellence and led the regional industry for schedule completion rate in 2022.

In 2019 and 2020, Berry served as president of Alaska Airlines’ wholly owned subsidiary McGee Air Services, where he was president with oversight for all aspects of aviation services ground handling, aircraft grooming, airport mobility services, check-in and gate services.

From 2012 until June 2019, he led Alaska Air Cargo with direct responsibility for all aspects of cargo operations and compliance including revenue growth.

In 2022 he was named Air Cargo World’s “Executive of the Year.”

Berry graduated from Central Washington University and earned an Executive MBA at the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business.

Our operations are back to normal after winter wallops. To our guests: Thank you for your patience

December 30, 2022
Company
Alaska Airlines
6 min read

WEATHER UPDATE: In the wake of the winter storms, our operations have returned to normal across our network. We continue to help our guests with travel arrangements for flights that were canceled over the past week and a half, including booking them on other airlines to get them to their destinations. To make traveling less burdensome for those looking to book new flights in the wake of weather disruptions, we have lowered our fares in select cities.

For guests whose travel was affected by winter weather, refunds and reimbursemetns are available. Learn more here.

Updated @ 1:53 AM PT on 12/30

Generally, freezing rain is more challenging than snow and causes airline operations to slow down significantly or even halt completely until weather conditions improve. Aircraft must be completely clear of ice or snow to maintain the aerodynamic integrity and be safe for flight. It generally takes longer to clear an aircraft of ice than it does to clear it of snow.

While it is never our goal to disrupt someone’s flight, especially around the holidays, the safety of our guests and employees is our highest priority. If you are traveling this week, we encourage you to check the status of your flight before heading to the airport and take advantage of our flexible travel waiver, which has been extended and now includes Portland and Seattle, to rebook your travel.

Here’s what to do if your flight is impacted and a look at our strategy to fly in winter weather:

Should your flight cancel, you can rebook your trip online or on Alaska’s app

If your flight is impacted for any reason, you should receive a notification from our team and an accommodation on a new flight if flights are available. If you need to make further changes, you can use our app or go online to rebook your travel.

Should you wish to hold the value of your ticket(s) and decide to move your trip to a future date, you may place the value of your ticket in your Mileage Plan Wallet for future use or request a full refund by viewing our refund options.

Take advantage of our flexible travel waiver

Sometimes things like winter weather force you to adjust your travel plans. In those instances, we have a flexible travel policy you can use to waive the difference in the price of a new ticket (rules apply) and as always, we don’t charge change fees. Learn more

Download Alaska’s app

Our app is the perfect tool to have on hand when you fly with us. You can use it to check in, pay for bags and stay up to date on any changes to your reservation—it’s like having a travel agent at your fingertips.

Download the Alaska App

Pro-tip: Turn on app notifications to get alerts from us + retrieve your boarding pass in one easy swipe on your home screen.

Sign up for flight notifications

Stay in the know by signing up for flight notifications via text or email. Unless otherwise noted, we will use your primary email address linked to your reservation for all communications.

If you’re using the app, be sure to refresh your reservation frequently and check your messages!

Call us, if you can’t rebook online

While we understand your first reaction might be to call our reservations team when your flight has been canceled, we’ve found you can save time by rebooking your trip online or on our app.

If your flight is impacted, you should receive a priority phone number to call via email if you’d like to discuss alternate options with one of our reservation agents—who are a constant and dependable source of reassurance and help when you need it most.

For all other reservation questions, guests can call 1 (800) 252-7522.

Why do the impacts feel worse in Seattle?

Seattle is Alaska’s hometown, and our operations represent the largest percentage (by a wide margin) of departures and arrivals at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) compared to other airlines. Because of this, more of our guests are impacted when something impacts operations at Seattle. If another airline’s main hub got hit with a snowstorm, hurricane or power outage, they would be disproportionately impacted.

For context, SEA has a very small footprint by acreage compared to other metropolitan airports. This constrains our ability to deice our entire schedule of flights in wintry weather. Because the space doesn’t allow for that type of volume, we have to thin out our schedule to keep planes moving.

December 20, 2022; de-icing winter operations in snow at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

Why do we cancel flights before snow and ice arrives?

We use numerous tools and resources to help us predict the weather. When our forecasts tell us to expect snow or ice, we know we need to act. Freezing temperatures and precipitation mean that we need to deice our aircraft before they can safely fly (more info on that below). Much like putting chains or studded tires on your car before hitting a snowy road, deicing aircraft slows down our operation. This means we can’t move our normal number of aircraft into and out of the airport. In order to reduce traffic jams, we need to proactively cancel flights from our schedule so we can keep as many aircraft moving as possible.

If we need to cancel flights, we try and let impacted guests know as early as possible. This means it could look clear and beautiful outside, but your flight tomorrow may have been canceled.

Why does an airplane need to be deiced?

Whenever there’s any snowfall or ice on our aircraft, we begin deicing procedures as part of our safety protocol. Aircraft cannot safely operate if there is snow or ice accumulation on the wings or tails, so it’s critical that we remove it before takeoff.

We have a full fleet of trucks, equipment and personnel across our stations ready to do that work, along with a well-stocked amount of deicing solution. They work as quickly as the airport and weather conditions will safely allow. However, deicing aircraft at the gate can lead to longer wait times on the tarmac—but safety comes first.

📹 If interested in deicing b-roll, download it here.

December 20, 2022; SeaTac, WA | Photo by Joe Nicholson

Watch Alaska Airlines surprise college students with the “Gift of Travel” to fly home for the holidays

December 28, 2022
Community
Alaska Airlines
7 min read

Alaska is making a difference in peoples’ lives this holiday season by giving back. From flying college students facing housing insecurity home for the holidays to our Pack the Plane efforts to stock the shelves of local food banks.

When Jaideven Tabios-Suesue moved away from the only place he’d ever called home to pursue “an opportunity of a lifetime” as a defensive back for the San Jose City College Jaguars – he knew it wouldn’t be easy.

He was more than 3,000 miles away from his 14 siblings and didn’t have the means to visit if he felt homesick let alone during school breaks.

This month, we surprised Jaideven and two of his teammates experiencing housing insecurity with the “Gift of Travel” for the holidays. The students were identified through our relationship with the San Jose Evergreen Community College District Foundation, a non-profit that supports student access and success through philanthropy.

“Hearing the exciting news that Alaska Airlines would be supporting three of our students faced with housing and financial challenges by flying them home to Anchorage and Boston to be with their families for the holidays was a tear-jerking moment.”
Rosalie Gutiérrez Ledesma, executive director of government and external affairs for San José and Evergreen Community Colleges.

Ledesma said 68% of the San José City College students who responded to a 2019 #RealCollege survey indicated they struggle with housing and 25% said they were experiencing homelessness without permanent housing.

Two San Diego State University students identified through Wesley House in San Diego were also surprised with flights to visit their families, including Carson Timar. The senior, who wants to be a high school teacher, said he didn’t have permanent housing for more than a year before finding affordable housing through Wesley House.

Before Timar moved from Dallas to San Diego, he had discovered a close family friend had taken his entire college savings.

“I was talking to my roommate about Christmas and got emotional because it was such a question mark and I wanted to see my mom,” he said. “Genuinely, it means so much.”

The “Gift of Travel” didn’t stop with flights for the students to visit their families. All five students were given $500 gift cards and $1,000 to put toward future rent. Alaska is also donating a total of $10,000 to the Wesley House of San Diego and and San José Evergreen Community College District Foundation to support the important work they do for our future generation.

We work and live in California and want to be part of the solution of helping the most vulnerable members in our community. Care is at the core of our DNA here at Alaska Airlines and giving back to our communities is one of the best ways we can demonstrate that care,” said Neil Thwaites, regional vice-president of California for Alaska Airlines.

About the students:

Jaideven Tabios-Suesue currently attends San José City College as a first-year student athlete. He and his 14 siblings were adopted by his grandparents in Anchorage, Alaska after his father was incarcerated and his mother left for another state. Jaideven is the first one in his family to pursue college and is earning straight A’s as a Business major. He hopes to transfer to San José State University in pursuit of being a Spartan on-and-off-the-field.

Jeremyah Rollins is a San José City College freshman and offensive lineman for the Jaguars, the school’s football team. The first person he wants to see when he returns home to Anchorage, Alaska is his mother, who raised him on her own. Jeremyah said his mother is his “everything” and the reason why he “is playing football today and in college.” When the family of one of Jeremyah’s teammates learned he couldn’t afford a place to live in the Bay Area, they opened their doors and welcomed him into their home. He hopes to soon find a job and afford a place of his own.

Larissa Chacon is a first-generation Latina student at San Diego State University and is in her third year as a sociology major with minors in Women Studies and Honors. The San Francisco native works two jobs in order to pay for her affordable housing unit through Wesley House. Larissa and her brother were separated from their mother at a young age before being reunited years later.

Mike Holt is a freshman is a San José City College freshman and a wide receiver for the school’s football team. He moved from Massachusetts and immediately found himself struggling to stay housed. He currently has several roommates and shares his room to be able to afford rent. He said that “moving across the country makes me miss my family and if I can see them, that’s all I would want for the holidays.”

Carson Timar is a San Diego State University senior where he is an English major. His dream is to become a teacher. He currently works as a Special Education Assistant at a local high school. Before Carson moved to California from Dallas, Texas — he learned a close family friend had taken his entire college savings. He experienced housing insecurity for more than a year before finding affordable housing through Wesley House.

Giving back this holiday season

We packed 36 planes with food for the hungry

When Alaska first started the Pack the Plane holiday food drive in 2009, the idea was to fill an entire virtual plane based on the weight of food and what a plane could hold. This effort grew over time to eventually include partnerships with local food banks as well as online donations. This year’s numbers are still coming in, but so far we’ve packed 36 airplanes, raised $171,000, worked 415 volunteer hours, and donated 6,400 pounds of food to 104 food banks across the cities where we fly.

We flew children to the North Pole

Our annual Fantasy Flight recently arrived at the “North Pole” to bring smiles and holiday cheer to dozens of Spokane-area children, many of whom live in shelters or transitional housing.

For most of the children on board it was their first time on an airplane. Flight 1225 (as in “Dec. 25”) departed Spokane, Washington for Santa’s hometown. Upon arrival, the children were treated to an elaborate party – a true winter wonderland! Hundreds of employees and family members volunteered as elves to make the experience special.

For children who don’t have much, the special treatment provides a momentary lift this time of year – and memories to last a lifetime.

Employees in Milwaukee and Fairbanks filled in for Santa

If you celebrate Christmas, writing letters to Santa feels exciting itself but imagine what a magical feeling it would be to get a reply! That’s what little ones who traveled through Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Wisconsin between Nov. 18 and Dec. 2 are experiencing this month.

During that week, travelers dropped letters to Santa with a list of wishes in a special red mailbox. From there, our Milwaukee station employees shipped the mail to our Fairbanks station, along with photos of a holiday trio of stuffed animal friends who watch over the special delivery.

@mitchellairport Santa’s Mailbox arrived at MKE and our first three letters were dropped off! Can you guess by who? #holiday #holidaycountdown #airport #fyp ♬ Elf – Main Theme – Geek Music

In Fairbanks, Alaska, agents replied to every letter and, in partnership with the Milwaukee Airport, purchased gifts for the children who wrote to Santa and are mailing them each a surprise.

This joint effort between Alaska and the Milwaukee Airport called Letters to Santa started a few years ago and brings holiday joy to every season.

What is freezing rain and why is it so challenging for air travel?

December 22, 2022
Guest Experience
Bret Peyton
2 min read

Captain Bret Peyton is Alaska’s managing director of standards, fleet and operational control as well as the FAA-designated director of operations. He has been flying for Alaska for 22 years.

As everyone at Alaska is working hard to get our guests to their holiday destinations, our forecasts are calling for freezing rain in the next few days. I want to explain why that’s so challenging for our operation.

First of all, safety is our highest value at Alaska Airlines, and we never operate a flight unless we know it’s completely safe.

Now to the freezing rain. Let me explain how freezing rain occurs and why it impacts our operation so much. Freezing rain occurs when warm, moist air overrides colder air at the surface. This is called a temperature inversion. The temperature inversion causes super cooled water droplets to adhere to any surface like an aircraft wing or even power lines and tree branches.

The effects of a freezing rain storm in 2012.

We’ve all seen those pictures of power lines with icicles on them. Can you imagine if that was an aircraft wing? Clearly, we cannot operate in those conditions.

Traditional deice methods can combat freezing rain, but only in light conditions. Moderate or heavy freezing rain produces conditions that are almost impossible for any airline to operate in.

Because the forecast is so variable over the next couple days, we’re unsure how much freezing rain we’re going to get in Seattle and Portland, but we do anticipate having at least some freezing rain in these two main hubs.

Our pilots at Alaska Airlines are very well-versed in operating in wintertime conditions, and we will not operate an aircraft unless it’s safe. Suffice it to say if the aircraft is moving, it’s safe to do so.

Be assured, everyone at Alaska Airlines wants to get you to your destination safely this holiday season. We’ll do everything in our power to get you where you need to go. In the meantime, keep your eye on the forecast, check on your flight before you leave for the airport, and take advantage of our flexible travel waivers if you can. From everyone at Alaska Airlines, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Gift Local-Style this LAU HALAday Season

December 14, 2022
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
7 min read

There’s nothing quite as nostalgic as flipping through the pages of a holiday catalog to find the perfect gift for that special someone. Hawaiian Airlines is ringing in this merry season with a nod to the yesteryears through its third annual HawaiianMiles Holiday Catalog, a digital shopping guide featuring over 30 HawaiianMiles partners that offer Hawaiʻi-inspired gifts for every unique personality, from the adventurer to the trendsetter.

Shoppers can earn up to 10 miles per dollar spent with a Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® or Bankoh Hawaiian Airlines^® Visa^® Debit Card, and HawaiianMiles members can redeem miles to purchase gift cards or earn bonus miles with select specialty partners.

LAU HALAdays: A Nod to a Revered Cultural Practice

In true Hawaiʻi fashion, the holidays wouldn’t be complete in the Hawaiian Islands without the time-honored tradition of ulana (weaving) lau hala (hala tree leaves). The creative team behind the catalog found inspiration in a design rooted in ulana lau hala, a cultural art that stems back to Hawaiʻi’s ancient times. Polynesians first voyaged to the Hawaiian Islands with lau hala sails and continued to use the material for everything from sleeping mats to storage boxes to clothing. Today, local artisans practice ulana lau hala with great reverence, patience and mastery.

Credit: Hawaiʻi State Archives/Pan-Pacific Press Bureau

Children watching a weaver strip lau hala in Kona on the Island of Hawaiʻi

“Lau hala was the perfect pillar for this year’s holiday catalog design concept,” said Emily Matsuno, a digital designer at Hawaiian, who got the idea during a casual conversation with the airline’s community and cultural relations team. “It’s an iconic tradition carrying significance across the Pacific Islands and is a heritage craft that resonates with everyone, no matter where they live.”

The creative team spent months designing a catalog that paid homage to ulana lau hala while serving as a global platform for local businesses. Some even traveled to Kona on the Island of Hawaiʻi, hoping to visit a selection of small shops dedicated to lau hala craftsmanship.

A selection of lau hala items and holiday ornaments showcased at the Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona conference.

“We were eyeing the historic Kimura Lauhala Shop in Hōlualoa, but it was closed when we arrived,” said Sachie Yorck, a copywriter at Hawaiian. “As luck would have it, the neighboring business owner saw our disappointment and told us that the Kimuras weren’t far — Renee was attending Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona, the 25th annual lau hala conference at Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa, just 10 minutes away.”

Yorck recalled, “It was quite the happy accident. We found dozens of energetic weavers crafting together and sharing their generations-old techniques when we arrived. We bought two bags of lau hala from Alice Kawamoto and her daughters who source their hala leaves from trees on their property.”

The creative team's haul of lau hala items from Kona for the 2022 HawaiianMiles Holiday Catalog.

Many decorative pieces featured throughout the catalog, including the twinkling stars, the snowman, the Christmas tree, the stocking, and more, came from the accidental trip to the lau hala conference. Hala trees and lau hala can also be found in the background of many of the partner product shots.

A Meaningful Way to Connect Communities and Businesses

The HawaiianMiles Holiday Catalog first came to life in 2020 as local entrepreneurs were wrestling with the economic grips of the COVID-19 pandemic. Brighson Tolentino, card and travel products specialist at Hawaiian Airlines, said the idea came from wanting to provide relief to Hawaiʻi businesses.

“I remember, that fall, we came together as a team and brainstormed how to help these businesses, especially our local partners, and drive revenue to their stores,” he said. “The outcome was the annual HawaiianMiles Holiday Catalog, which has become a vehicle to drive more business to the wide variety of shopping and dining partners during the busiest time of the year and generate awareness among our HawaiianMiles members.”

Hawaiian Airlines teamed up with Local Motion Hawaii on an exclusive t-shirt design, just in time for the holiday season,

Each year brings a new look and feel to the retail catalog, and when Hawaiian’s creative team proposed its lau hala concept, it struck a deep chord for Tolentino.

“When I was a kid, my grandma would have me help her with craft fairs. She would have me clean out lau hala leaves, dry them, and weave them into a Christmas ornament. So, when the creative team presented the idea, it was very sentimental to me,” he said.

Many products in the catalog were showcased with lau hala products purchased in Kona and/or shot in areas with native ferns or hala trees, including the Royal Hawaiian Resort in Waikīkī.

Tolentino also explained that lau hala plays a role in presenting gifts, which led the team to do something novel for the catalog launch: introduce an exclusive partnership with Wrappily, a Maui-based sustainable wrapping paper company.

“A wrapping paper partnership is something we’ve never done before,” said Matsuno. “We worked with the business owner to produce a two-sided design – one with a realistic lau hala print and the other with a hala tree pattern. The partnership was another way to support a local entrepreneur, spread holiday cheer, and honor the lifecycle of hala.”

Matsuno (shown left) photographing a lau hala mat at the Hawaiian Airlines headquarters for the carrier's exclusive Wrappily two-side hala design (shown right)

Tolentino added, "I'm proud of my colleagues for working hard on this year's catalog. It does a beautiful job of sharing elements of Hawaiian culture while encouraging folks around the world to engage with Hawai'i and support the islands' businesses. "

Enter for a Chance to Win

The 2022 HawaiianMiles Holiday Catalog is available until Dec. 31, 2022.

Those who use a Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® or Bankoh Hawaiian Airlines^® Visa^® Debit Card while shopping with a HawaiianMiles Marketplace partner featured in the catalog will be entered for a chance to win up to 250,000 HawaiianMiles.^* (Psst…each purchase equals one entry!). For rules and eligibility, visit www.HawaiianAirlines.com/Catalog-Sweepstakes.

On behalf of the entire Hawaiian Airlines ʻohana,

happiest of LAU HALAdays to you and yours!

** No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18 years or older or age of majority & are Hawaiian Airlines® Mastercard® and Bankoh Hawaiian Airlines® Visa® Debit Card cardholders as of 11/24/22, with an account in good standing through the end of the promotion period. Starts 12:00:01 am HST on 11/25/22 and ends 11:59:59 pm HST on 12/31/22. For rules, visit https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/social/holiday-catalog-sweepstakes-rules. Sponsor: Hawaiian Airlines, Inc.

The Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® is issued by Barclays Bank Delaware (Barclays) pursuant to a license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard, World Elite Mastercard, and World Elite Mastercard are registered trademarks, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

The Bankoh Hawaiian Airlines® Visa® Debit Card is issued by Bank of Hawaii, VISA is a registered trademark of Visa International Service Association and used under license.

Alaska’s Fantasy Flight brings out the kid in everyone and shows how kindness is the best gift of all

December 13, 2022
Community
Tash Haynes
8 min read

We only get so many opportunities in life to truly believe in magic.

This weekend, Alaska Airlines made us all believers! On Saturday, I suited up in my best elf attire to visit the “North Pole” on Alaska’s “Fantasy Flight,” which was filled with Santa’s helpers (like me) and more than 50 kids from local communities.

Before stepping foot in the Spokane Airport, I had no idea what to expect. As other volunteers added finishing touches to their hair and makeup, adjusting their badges with names like Jet, Aqua, Flash, Juggles, and Shorty, I overheard how life-changing this day is for so many people.

You will never be the same after today, it will change you,” said a volunteer, many of whom have been part of this event for 10+ years and work for Alaska and Horizon Air.

When the kids arrived at the airport, they were greeted with applause and big hugs from us elves. Each young person had an elf assigned to them to help guide and walk them through the day. They were fitted with “I Believe” t-shirts, took pictures for their special North Pole passports, walked around meeting elves, and got their autographs. The airport lobby was filled with elves and the sounds of holiday music.

Although I couldn’t begin to imagine how it would affect me, I personally know how these moments can impact a child. As a kid born into the system and aged out of foster care, acts of kindness like this gave me hope during the holidays. They made me feel remembered and showed me a tiny glimpse of what I deserved from life, despite my circumstances.

As I walked around the gate, meeting everyone, signing special North Pole passports, and playing games, I met McKayla, a 7-year-old, big brown-eyed first-timer to the North Pole. We danced and laughed as she shared her love for gymnastics and her excitement about going to the North Pole with me and Tinsel Bell, her assigned elf. She’s always wanted to meet Santa and looked forward to getting on the big plane wrapped with a bow.

Me, McKayla and Tinsel Bell. Fantasy Flight was hosted on Alaska’s Gift of Travel Plane.

This is Flight Attendant Carole’s 15th year flying the Fantasy Flight.

One of Alaska’s most senior flight attendants, Carole S, welcomed everyone on board. She has never missed a Fantasy Flight—rumor has it, she even extended her 55-year career with the airline to take one final trip for its 15th-year milestone. She was so warm and kind, along with the rest of the crew who calmed any nervous flyers with special snowballs and goodies throughout the flight.

For many of the gleeful little ones, it was their first time on a plane, and best believe us, elves made sure they had the best trip possible.

Elves led in holiday songs, started snowball fights and constantly updated everyone on the position of Santa’s Sleigh as we navigated our way to the North Pole. When we landed and the doors flung open, we were greeted by a parade of elves, cheering and high-fiving, lining the walkway to a private hangar, a.k.a. ‘the North Pole.’

Kids jumped up and down, and the little girl in me squealed too! At that moment, I felt a little tap on the back of my arm. I turned around to see McKayla; she said, “I found you, I was looking for you the entire flight. We made it to the North Pole!” I high-fived her and said, “I was looking for you too, we made it!” At that moment I cried, I remembered my own journey to “the North Poles,” and I understood how magical that moment must have been for her.

Fantasy Flight means so much more than serving underprivileged kids and giving them a day of sugary snacks and gifts from Santa. It is a moment when kids who are often overlooked get a chance to be the focus of attention and experience what it means to have a moment in time to be celebrated simply for existing.

Shortly after arriving, Mrs. Claus met the children to ask if they knew why they had been invited to the North Pole. The kids looked around to see if anyone had the answer; she said that when she and Santa looked out over the night sky, they were the brightest stars of all. She said they had to get them to the North Pole to tell the kids just how special they were.

Each child had a moment with Mrs. Claus before meeting Santa. I found myself in tears (again) as I watched her speak with them. She was so present and connected; I could imagine what it felt like for them to have that special one-on-one time with so much happening around them. It was a tender moment I’ll never forget.

When it was time for McKayla to meet Santa, she asked both Tinsel Bell and I to join her. She found her name written boldly on the last page in Santa’s book. Moments later, the curtain was pulled back and she ran to greet him sitting atop his sleigh.

After telling Santa what she hoped to get for Christmas, he called her back to let her know he had something special for her. An elf pulled out an oversized sleigh bag, bigger than her, filled with toys handpicked with her in mind.

I followed McKayla and Tinsel Bell back into the workshop, where she began sorting the gifts in her bag. With each toy she pulled out, she gasped and yelled, “I always wanted one of these!” I cried watching her, remembering hopes and dreams in my own life and moments when they came to be. She looked at me and said, “you’re getting emotional. Why?” I told her I was just so happy that she got to meet Santa so he could see how special she was.

The night wrapped with everyone gathered around the fireplace as Santa and Mrs. Claus read aloud “The Polar Express” (one of my favorites). Each child was given a blanket and pillow to match their cozy jammies and their own copy of the book. At the end of the story, Mrs. Claus reminded us that magic will always exist as long as we believe, and each child was handed a special bell, like the boy in the story.

Fantasy Flight is a chance to be remembered, seen, and looked after by someone who truly cares about you. Although I wasn’t assigned a child of my own to escort as an elf, it was undeniable that McKayla and I were meant to find each other. She has my whole heart.

As I prepared to say goodbye to McKayla, I signed her passport booklet one more time with a special note, letting her know that she was the best part of my day. As I gave it back to her, she ripped her picture out of it, handed it to Tinsel Bell, then took her personal key to the North Pole and put it around my neck. She said, “I want you guys to have these to remember me. You were my most favorite part of this day.” I cried, again.

I hugged McKayla and told her never to forget the magic that lives within her — today was just a preview of all of the special moments that belonged to her. I told her to always look for the good things and believe that she is worthy and deserving of them and that I would always be thinking of her here at the North Pole until we found each other again.

We headed into the “Magic Transporter,” filled with fog and lights to sing one final chant that landed us back in Spokane, where an SUV-stretch limo was waiting to take McKayla and the other children safely back home. As we walked McKayla out, she blew kisses and waved until the doors shut and we stuck around to catch them all. Once she was gone, Tinsel Bell and I burst into tears, so thankful for what we had just experienced together. Filled with so many emotions, we walked back into the North Pole and hugged other elves to reminisce on what we had just witnessed.

At the beginning of the day, I couldn’t quite understand what made this flight so unique, but by the end, I fully understood. A little bit of magic exists in all of us. We just need to make space for it and to remember anything’s possible. Fantasy Flight helped me remember the power of magic and how acts of kindness, big or small, can be the best gift of all.

Watch the magic of Fantasy Flight unfold:

Download b-roll here.

As Mauna Loa Erupts, Hawaiian Airlines Leans into its 93-Year Experience to Keep Flying

December 6, 2022
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
8 min read

When the sun sets in Hilo on the Island of Hawaiʻi, the glow of molten rock lingers, lighting the night sky and bellies of vapor and gas clouds rising from lava fissures. This is the natural wonder of an eruption at Mauna Loa, the largest active volcano on the planet – standing at 13,681 feet above sea level and 30,000 feet from the sea floor – which stirred awake for the first time in 38 years just last week. According to the National Park Service, the event marks the first time since 1984 that Mauna Loa and the adjacent Kīlauea volcano are erupting simultaneously.

Volcanic activity is nothing new to Hawaiʻi’s people, including Hawaiian Airlines’ operations team. The archipelago state is home to six active shield volcanoes, with four – Hualālai, Kīlauea, the most active in the world, Kohala, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa – on the Island of Hawaiʻi. And with each significant eruption throughout Hawaiian Airlines’ 93-year history, the more experience our teams have stashed away in preparation for the next.

Credit: U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)/Department of the Interior/L. DeSmither

Aerial view of fissure 3 erupting on the Northeast Rift Zone of Mauna Loa the morning of Dec. 4.

“We’ve been around a while and know that when eruptions occur in the islands, they aren’t usually extreme pyroclastic ash events – that’s not the type of volcanoes we have in Hawaiʻi,” said Jon Snook, Hawaiian’s chief operating officer, who added that Mauna Loa is the second volcano-related event in his seven years at the company.

The U.S. Geological Service first reported the Mauna Loa eruption around 11:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 27, prompting our 24/7, Honolulu-based Systems Operations Control Center to spring into action. Snook recalled learning about the news that evening, noting it was an event expected to happen due to recent seismic activity on the mountain. To his team, understanding the situation and gathering all the facts were the first and most crucial steps before evaluating any potential schedule impacts.

An archived Hawaiian Airlines print advertisement

“Our dispatchers maintained close contact with the relevant authorities in meteorological and geological reports overnight. Before we could decide to cancel any flights, we needed evidence of ash (which is bad for engines) in the air, but officials couldn’t accurately measure levels until daylight,” Snook explained. “We decided that night to delay some of the morning’s first Hilo flights until we could better understand the air quality. Once the sun rose, reports verified there were no dangerous ash levels in the air, and we knew we could operate as usual. Our Hilo schedule ran a little later into the day because of those few front-end delays, but our operations didn’t experience any major impact.”

"So, we want to reiterate to folks concerned about their travel plans that it’s perfectly safe to visit – and even an exciting time to see something that we may not get another look at for 38 years (if history is our guide),” Snook explained.

He added, “We all take our guests’ and employees’ safety seriously, but we know to be cautious about doing anything definitive until we have a better understanding of what’s happening. That is the benefit of being around for 93 years and having gone through similar events in the past.”

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)/Department of the Interior/N. Deligne

The ongoing Northeast Rift Zone eruption of Mauna Loa, as viewed from the Daniel K. Inouye Highway (Saddle Road) shortly after 6 a.m. HST on Dec. 4.

The 2018 Kīlauea eruption was the last significant volcanic event in Hawaiʻi to consume global news cycles as bright orange lava streams flowed down the volcano's broad slopes and destroyed 612 homes with fountains that reached heights of 260 feet. While Kīlauea also posed minimal disruption to Hawaiian's flights, Snook pointed to a wave of misinformation related to the size of the event and traveler fear as the biggest challenge.

“This event is similar to Kīlauea in that it is a relatively calm eruption compared to pyroclastic eruptions like the ones that recently erupted in Iceland and Tonga, and only a small percentage of the Big Island (Island of Hawaiʻi) is impacted. Mauna Loa’s lava flows currently aren’t going near populated areas. So, we want to reiterate to folks concerned about their travel plans that it’s perfectly safe to visit – and even an exciting time to see something that we may not get another look at for 38 years (if history is our guide),” Snook explained.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)/Department of the Interior/L. Gallant

This image, taken during an early morning overflight on Dec. 5, shows Mauna Loa's Northeast Rift Zone fissure 3 vent and lava channel. Fountain heights of 130 feet (40 meters), with bursts over 330 feet (100m) were measured by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.

Aside from traveling to the Island of Hawaiʻi for a volcanic adventure, guests should also use the Mauna Loa event to learn about the cultural significance of volcanoes and lava in Hawaiʻi and what it means to travel pono (responsibly).

"This is a good time for malihini (visitors) and kamaʻāina (residents) to educate themselves before going to experience the lava so that they may stay safe and be respectful of the eruption’s spiritual and historical significance."

Many in Hawaiʻi observe lava and volcanoes with immense respect and consider the events highly sacred. In Hawaiian folklore, Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, venerated as a creator (and destroyer) of land, is believed to be responsible for eruptions and embodied in the fiery lava. Legend has it that Pele resides inside Kīlauea’s Halemaʻumaʻu Crater.

“Flowing lava is definitely a sight to remember, but it’s also, more importantly, an occasion to be revered,” said Manakō Tanaka, senior community and cultural relations specialist at Hawaiian Airlines. “This is a good time for malihini (visitors) and kamaʻāina (residents) to educate themselves before going to experience the lava so that they may stay safe and be respectful of the eruption’s spiritual and historical significance.”

An archived Hawaiian Airlines print advertisement from 2004

The eruption is also an opportunity to listen to moʻōlelo (stories) of those who have witnessed one of Hawaiʻi’s many volcanic eruptions over the decades. Hawaiian Airlines Archivist Monica Bacon is the daughter of one of the carrier’s first flight attendants who flew during the 1950 Mauna Loa eruption.

“My mom used to fly flights to the Big Island all the time, and she would recall passengers' great enthusiasm and interest to see the Mauna Loa eruption,” she recalled. “She was a student at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa during the day, so she would usually work the late afternoon/evening flights and would come home talking about being able to see Mauna Loa’s glowing lava flows from the cabin windows.”

The cover of Hawaiian Airlines' inflight magazine from 1987

“For decades, visitors have been drawn to the Island of Hawai’i to watch the steam rise from the [Halemaʻumaʻu] crater’s vents and to drive through Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park,” shared Hawaiian Airlines Hilo Station Manager Luana Gibson while reflecting on the Kīlauea eruption’s impact in 2018. “One of my favorite memories [of the volcanoes] is when I hiked to the cliffs in Kalapana and watched the glowing lava kiss the sea while a tūtū wove a haku lei (a lei worn on the head) nearby and a local brother named Puna played and sang beautiful Hawaiian songs.”

While experiencing a volcanic eruption in Hawaiʻi is an extraordinary event, it is also a powerful and humbling force of nature to be respected. Travelers planning to visit the Mauna Loa eruptions should always do so safely and with deference to Hawaiian culture, surrounding communities, the land, and local laws. For the latest alerts and guidance on appropriate viewing areas, click here.

5 things Alaska Airlines flyers can expect in 2023 & beyond

December 6, 2022
Guest Experience
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

Yesterday, we hosted our first-ever “Flyer Forum” in Seattle to engage with Mileage Plan members about upcoming valuable oneworld benefits, new additions to our fleet, and innovations to improve our guest experience.

At the in-person event, hosted by Seattle Kraken Play-by-Play Announcer Everett Fitzhugh, our loyal guests heard from our President and CEO Ben Minicucci and a few of our Alaska leaders about what’s ahead in 2023 and beyond.

“We wanted to do something different and special to deepen our connection with our most loyal guests,” said Alaska Air Group President and CEO Ben Minicucci. “This was about us sharing exciting things on the horizon and hearing how we can offer the best care now and for years to come.”

Last night’s event took place at a facility where we also host day-long retreats for our guest-facing employees with the goal of welcoming 13,000 employees through exercises that emphasize care.

1. We are growing with our largest aircraft order, ever.

2022 was a big year for Alaska and our regional partner, Horizon Air. We ratified 5 labor deals, announced the transition to a single fleet of aircraft and hired more than 6,000 new employees. By the first quarter of 2023, we’ll be back to 2019 flying levels and on-track for sustainable growth.

By 2026, we’ll have a fleet of more than 400 aircraft, and we’ll have one of the youngest fleets in the industry —the average age of our mainline and regional fleet is 9 years as of November 2022.

2. We are upgrading the airport experience.

Over the next 3 years, we’re investing $2.5 billion in overall improvements to enhance the airport experience within our hubs and focus cities, including Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Alaska.

3. Our goal is to get you through the lobby in 5 min or less.

At Alaska, our goal is to have our guests get through the lobby in 5 min or less through innovative technology and self-serving tools like our electronic bag tag program and mobile app.

Print bag tags faster: We’ve launched electronic bag tags! This will allow guests to tag their bags before arriving to the airport by setting it up through the mobile app.

Automated bag drops: You won’t have to get in line to drop a bag. But our amazing agents will always be there to help.

Track your checked bags on our app: This is a feature that many guests have asked for. A lot of other airlines do it, but we’re going to go further, by adding the ability to keep tabs on your bags within our mobile app. Stay tuned!

4. oneworld elite benefits are worth crowing about. And soon you will be able to buy tickets with 10 global airlines on alaskaair.com.

If you’re a Mileage Plan elite, one of the best things about joining oneworld is that your elite status automatically carries over when you fly on other oneworld partners, a group of world-leading airlines with connections to more than 900 destinations in 170 territories. The more you fly with Alaska, the more benefits you’ll unlock on not only us, but internationally. Learn more.

Elite flyers can get priority check-in, access to preferred seating and priority waitlist when on standby, priority boarding, bonus miles and more depending on tier status. **one**world Sapphire and Emerald members can also access partner lounges when traveling outside of the U.S., Canada, or Mexico.

Soon, guests will be able to book travel on 10 **one**world airlines using alaskaair.com.

5. We’re committed to making care count.

We have survived and thrived for 90 years by creating value for everyone who depends on us – employees, guests, our stakeholders and our communities. Connecting with our guests at events like these is just one of the ways we are demonstrating care and making sure our amazing guests learn what we’re all about and the good work our employees are doing.

Care is more than our legacy. It’s also the key to our future. Working in some of the most unforgiving conditions in the world, we understand what matters most: keeping our guests and each other safe, doing what’s right and creating meaningful connections. As we continue to grow, we are committed to making care count.

CARE for our people. CARE for our planet. CARE for our guests.

Reasons why Alaska Airlines is taking the ‘ugly’ out of holiday sweaters

December 5, 2022
Community
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

It’s that time of year again to look fly at every festive soiree with Alaska’s holiday sweater!

Fashion expert Tan France calls holiday sweaters “a win-win.” He insists they’re acceptable enough to transition from a daytime look to an after-hour happy hour event without drawing too much attention.

Take it from fashion expert Tan France who says: “holiday sweaters are the epitome of a win-win.” He insists they’re acceptable enough to transition from a daytime look to an after-hour happy hour event without drawing too much attention.

Here are some other reasons why we think ‘ugly’ sweaters should no longer get that wrap:

It’s giving ‘born to stand out.’

“You become pretty hard to miss when you have a sweater with such a great color scheme and all the retro vibes to go with it,” says Denise, a first officer for Alaska based in Seattle. “When choosing the perfect sweater, pick one with a motive that inspires or represents you. Just have fun with it!”

Even if you’re on mute, at least your outfit pops on camera.

Exhibit A:

Call it “festive” or “vintage” what matters most is how it makes you feel.

“What I love about the sweater is how bright and comfortable it is. The style, designs and color just put you in the holiday spirit,” says Darren, one of our line aircraft technician trainers in San Francisco.

They’re soft, cozy and easy to pack.

“Alaska’s 2022 holiday sweater is a swanky design blending fashion and holiday fun. Roll your sweater loosely in tissue paper and tuck in a candy cane or two,” says Matthew, an Alaska flight attendant in San Diego. “To find the best one, look no further than the 2022 Alaska Holiday sweater. Perfect for everyone on your list. Pro tip: purchase one size larger for extra comfort.”

It goes great with a French tuck.

“Holiday sweaters have become a style all on its own. It’s a great way to block out the winter blues and add some fun and flare at any age,” says France.

They never go out of style.

Snag this year’s Alaska Airlines sweater & perfect gifts for the travel lover in your life

This year’s festive threads should make you feel extra cozy as temperatures drop. Our design is a throwback to a classic and features Alaska’s signature snow planes and other festive décor. You can purchase Alaska’s holiday sweater and other unique airline swag online or at our company store, located in SeaTac, Wash.

Perfect gifts this holiday season

Holiday Gift Guide

The perfect gift guide for the traveler in your life

December 5, 2022
Community
Alaska Airlines
2 min read

Whether you’re spending the holidays at home this year in your favorite holiday sweater or flying Alaska to somewhere special, we have gift ideas for the travel lover in your life! Give the gift of travel this year, along with some of the most unique airline swag available online or at our company store, located in SeaTac, Wash.

Note: For delivery before the holidays, please place your order by December 14.

Alaska’s 2022 holiday sweater

Holiday Sweater [SOLD OUT]

Hair Scrunchie

Ornament

Give the gift of travel.

This holiday season we’re inviting our guests to give the gift of travel! We are donating 1 million miles to our CARE Miles program, a unique and meaningful way Mileage Plan members can support important charitable organizations. You can also share miles with someone to help them reach their next award level or top off your own. Gift certificates are also a great gift idea for the traveler in your life!

Donate Miles

Book a Trip

Send Gift Certificate

Up your travel game with Flight Pass.

With a Flight Pass subscription, you’ll choose your own frequent flights every month to great destinations within California, between California and Nevada, and between California and Arizona. Subscribers lock in a price for 12 months worth of travel, below standard airfare rates.* With a fixed per-month price, you don’t have to worry about fares increasing, and planning/budgeting travel becomes a breeze. Plus, flying Alaska means you always land amazing care in the air.

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