Ultimate guide to Belize: Calling all thrill-seekers & beachgoers, this Caribbean oasis is for you!

November 19, 2021
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
6 min read

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Tucked between Mexico and the Caribbean sits Belize, a tropical marvel whose unique attractions and off-the-radar experiences lure in thousands of travelers every year.

A country that’s part of Central America and the Caribbean, Belize continues to be an anomaly attracting thrill-seekers and beach bummers alike. Lush jungles grace most of its landscape, coupled with hundreds of offshore islands in the world’s second-largest barrier reef.

Check out all the things to see and do unlike any other Caribbean destination below.

Things to do

Swim with sharks in Shark Ray Alley

What’s more adrenaline-pumping than swimming with sharks? Yep, it’s a thing. You can swim with sharks at Shark Ray Alley, located in a marine reserve, just a short boat ride away from the renowned island of Ambergris Caye.

This popular adventure has become the go-to site for snorkeling with sharks – the harmless ones, of course! Back in the day, fisherfolk cleaned their fish near this area, attracting nurse sharks and stingrays. Now, the area is a prime hang-out spot with these marine spectacles for travelers to experience and photograph. So you can don your fins and snorkeling mask, jump right in and swim alongside gentle creatures as they curiously circle the boat. Don’t worry, there’s no Jaws moment here!

Master your top of the world selfie at the Mayan City of Xunantunich

Unbeknownst to many, Belize was home to one of the world’s most mysterious civilizations: the ancient Maya. Bewilderingly enough, the Maya culture is still alive and well in Belize, though its numbers are nowhere near the colossal amount it once was a millennia ago. Still, the country is peppered with archaeological Maya sites from north to south.

One of the best ancient sites to wander is Xunantunich, a Maya city that once thrived during the Classic Period. Its name, which translates to “Maiden of the Rock” or “Stone Lady,” came from an old legend where in the 1800s, a hunter from the village of San Jose Succotz said he saw the apparition of a woman at the base of the largest temple. The temple, “El Castillo,” towers at 130 feet and offers sweeping panoramic views of the meandering river below and the jungle canopies surrounding the site. Unlike other Maya cities in Mexico, you can climb these temples to the top, meaning your selfies will be out of this world!

Explore fascinating grounds below in the ATM Cave

Belize boasts vast underground cave systems, many of which are still unexplored. Some are so world-renowned, visitors come from across the world to venture into the dark, damp mysteries. The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave is one of Belize’s most difficult caves yet most captivating. National Geographic even named it one of the Top 10 Sacred Caves in the world back in 2018! But what makes it so special? Dare to enter the tight-creviced cave and you’ll be greeted by not only Mayan pottery and artifacts but an actual Mayan skeleton purely intact. Known as the Crystal Maiden due to its crystallized form, the skeletal remains are believed to be the victim of a sacrificial ritual by the ancient Maya. Archaeologists and historians believe the Mayas may have used caves for such affairs, whereas the culture believed caves to be entrances to the underworld.

Sites to See

Spring break year-round in Ambergris Caye

Everyone may know the island’s only town as the inspiration for Madonna’s hit song “La Isla Bonita,” but there’s more to Ambergris Caye. The party island is Belize’s most visited destination, and for good reason. Its silk-sand beaches and swaying palm trees are the epitome of a dream vacation in the tropics.

An all-year-round Spring Break destination, Ambergris Caye is beaming with stellar nightlife and straight-up island vibes. You can opt to lounge the day away planted on a beach chaise at a beachfront resort or explore the island via its ubiquitous golf carts. Either way, the food, people, and the ever-present Caribbean breeze will make it a challenge to leave.

Enjoy the welcoming mecca of San Ignacio Town

At the heart of Belize’s Cayo District sits San Ignacio, a historic town with its own set of Maya sites and dense rainforests a stone’s throw away. About two hours away from the international airport, San Ignacio is a cultural Mecca with the warmest welcoming around. Stroll the Farmer’s Market downtown and exchange stories with the local fruit vendors.

You can also visit the Green Iguana Conservation Project at San Ignacio Resort Hotel and befriend the cute, green iguanas. Looking for a quick to-do? Make your way to the nearby Cahal Pech Maya site for a short, one-hour morning tour! The possibilities are endless.

Hopkins Village

On the southeast side of Belize lies the up-and-coming coastal village of Hopkins. This sleepy fishing village is a cultural hot spot and home to the Garifuna people of Belize. Hopkins is a great central hub, close to both the reef and rainforests and offers visitors the best of both worlds.

A perfect day in Hopkins includes a half-day snorkeling trip to a nearby offshore island and bookending it with drumming lessons at Warasa Garifuna School. If you’re searching for something a little more steeped in nature, a half-hour drive away is Maya King Waterfall, easily accessible and a welcome respite from the tropical heat.

Know before you go

Best time to visit

With Belize having only two seasons — wet and dry — any time is a great time to visit. However, the months of November to March are ideal as the weather is considerably cooler. This also coincides with the country’s dry season.

Book your travel to Belize

You can now fly to Belize City with Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles and Seattle!

Starting today, Alaska’s service to Belize operates four times a week between Los Angeles and Belize City (BZE) and twice weekly between Seattle and Belize City, just in time for the holiday season! You can purchase tickets here.

Photos courtesy of Belize Tourism Board.

Flying soon? Here are some holiday travel tips to keep spirits bright

November 17, 2021
Stories
Alaska Airlines
7 min read

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Holiday season is here — and it’s a busy one!

While the thought of traveling for the first time in over a year for some may seem daunting, studies have shown flying is minimal risk while wearing a mask and that cabin air may be cleaner than most homes, hospital rooms and supermarkets.

To make the travel process as smooth as possible, we have some helpful tips to relieve some stress.

Arrive early.

Please plan for additional time to get to and through the airport. We recommend arriving at least two hours before your flight and three hours before international departures.

Airports are busier than usual this time of year, which means lines could be longer and slower, congested traffic, and parking is at a premium. On top of that, many of us are traveling for the first time since the pandemic and our savviness might be a little rusty.

Check out airport guides for recommended airport arrival times, ticket counter hours and cut-off times for check-in and boarding.

Learn more: alaskaair.com/airports

Speed through security.

You can avoid long airport lines with a trusted traveler program like TSA Pre✓®, Clear or Global Entry. Membership in these programs gives you access to dedicated TSA Pre✓® lanes at more than 200 airports nationwide.

Departing from Seattle? Alaska Airlines and the Port of Seattle are offering a new way to get you through the general screening security checkpoint faster called SEA Spot Saver. A similar program is also launching in Newark (EWR), called VirtuaLine. Travelers can start reserving their spot(s) in line starting on Nov. 20, for flights departing on or after November 23^rd.

If you have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, you can still take advantage of these reservations, but you won’t receive the benefits of those trusted traveler programs, such as not having to remove your shoes and electronics. You’ll need to choose which program you want to use.

**Ensure you have proper ID.** Before heading to the airport, travelers should make sure they have acceptable identification. Identity verification is an important step in the security screening process.

Pack smarter not harder.

Prep for security when packing and ensure that there are no prohibited items in your bag(s)! Know which foods should go into a checked bag — gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, jam, and preserves should all go into a checked bag, because they are not solids.

If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, then it’s not a solid and should be packed in a checked bag. As always, passengers can bring solid foods such as cakes and other baked goods through the checkpoints.

Pro-tip: Wait to wrap your gifts—those won’t fly through security!

**It’s okay to bring hand sanitizer.** TSA is currently allowing travelers to bring one liquid hand sanitizer container up to 12 ounces per passenger in carry-on bags until further notice. Passengers can expect all containers larger 3.4 ounces will need to be screened separately, which will add some time to their checkpoint experience. Travelers can also bring alcohol wipes or anti-bacterial wipes in carry-on, checked luggage, or both.

Check in, print bag tags at home.

You can check in for your flight and print your bag tags in advance online or on our mobile app up to 24 hours before departure. For international flights, you can enter your passport information online. This way, you just drop your bag and go!

Learn more: alaskaair.com/selftag

Watch, text and be merry.

Snuggle into your seat and grab some snacks – we’re bringing you the most movies in the sky*- and TV shows, too – all for free! Choose from over 1000 free movies and TV episodes in our entertainment library. Simply connect to our onboard Wi-Fi network during your flight and visit AlaskaWiFi.com to browse our extensive library.

Most aircraft feature our streaming entertainment system, letting you watch free movies and TV shows on your own device.

Last-minute holiday to-dos? Texting doesn’t stop when you fly with us. Just connect to our inflight Wi-Fi and select “free texting.”

Learn more: alaskaair.com/inflight-entertainment

Pre-order meals onboard.

More food and beverage options are now available on board! Snack on favorites like the Signature Fruit & Cheese Platter or try our new menu items via pre-order on most flights over two hours. For guests in First Class, delicious hot meals are back on coast-to-coast and Hawaiʻi flights, plus Boxed Water to quench any thirst.

Don’t forget to pre-order your meal (if applicable) 20 hours before your flight!

Learn more: alaskaair.com/preorder

Junior jetsetters flying solo? We’ll take great care of them!

If you have kids who will be flying by themselves this holiday season, visit alaskaair.com to book their flights and discover the different types of care we offer kids of all ages.

Pro-tip: Print this travel checklist to ensure the smoothest process for your child passenger.

Book now. Mask up. Let’s go!

Our commitment to Next-Level Care means we’ve implemented 100+ ways to maintain the highest standard of safety throughout your travels.

Masks are still federally required during travel. All employees and guests must wear a face mask or covering through the airport and on board. This requirement applies even if you are fully vaccinated.

Travelers wearing a mask have a .003% or NEAR-ZERO CHANCE of being exposed to the virus, even on a full aircraft (according to a Department of Defense study).

Learn more: alaskaair.com/next-level-care

Spread joy & kindness

Remember that everyone is doing their best to make travel as safe, hassle-free and accessible as possible. The holidays are a busy time, and the airports will be filled with many people who fly just once or twice a year. It may seem like a small thing, but a little kindness goes a long way.

Book your holiday travel today on alaskaair.com.

Get your questions answered:

Manage your reservation online at alaskaair.com/booking.

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Reservations / Pre-flight questions: 1-800-252-7522 (1-800-ALASKAAIR)

Guest Care / Post-flight concerns: 1-800-654-5669

Baggage

Report any baggage issues in person before you leave the airport—you’ll need to do it within 24 hours. Baggage recovery and reimbursement steps

Lounge: 1-800-654-5669

Hearing and speech impaired (TTY) help is available. Dial 711 for relay services.

Questions about Mileage Plan? Reach out to us at 1-800-654-5669 or online.

TSA questions? Travelers can get assistance in real time by submitting their questions and comments to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger. Travelers can also reach the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673. Staff is available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends/holidays; and an automated service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Alaska Airlines flight attendant honors USS Indianapolis with special tribute to survivors & crew lost at sea

November 11, 2021
Stories
Alaska Airlines
6 min read

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When Alaska Flight Attendant Kim Roller met retired U.S. Navy Capt. John Woolston on a layover in Honolulu, she had no idea the impact he and other USS Indianapolis survivors would have on her life.

The USS Indianapolis warship sinking remains the largest loss of life at sea in the history of the U.S. Navy. Of the 1,196 crew on board, 316 were rescued from the water, and only four survivors remain alive today.

Retired U.S. Navy Capt. John Woolston (left) and Alaska Flight Attendant Kim Roller (right) met in 2012 and made a lasting connection. He eventually came around to the idea of attending a USS Indianapolis reunion. He never missed one after that.

Like many survivors, Woolston didn’t speak about his haunting ordeal for a long time. He told Roller, “I may be a survivor, but I don’t want that to define me.”

The Indy’s legacy and service came to a tragic end on July 30, 1945. In just 12 minutes, the sleek heavy cruiser, spanning the size of two football fields, was sent to the bottom of the Philippine Sea after being struck by enemy torpedoes in the middle of the night.

Woolston, 20 years old courtesy of the U.S. Navy Memorial

Woolston, was an engineer assigned to the Indianapolis when it sank. For five nights and four days, he and other service men were left drifting in the ocean to battle dehydration, shark attacks and extreme conditions until they were spotted by a pilot flying low enough to see them. After his rescue, he went on to serve a total of 31 years on active duty, sharing his story with hundreds of service men and women throughout Hawaii.

Kim (left) dressed in traditional era attire for her presentation at the 2016 USS Indianapolis Reunion.

Some members from the Indy crew still gather for a reunion in downtown Indianapolis to reconnect and remember. Roller attends every year and has dedicated her time paying tribute to the survivors with a multimedia presentation. She also visits as many crew members as she can when she travels.

“I owe these men everything. We all do. We’re free today because of what they did so long ago,” said Roller, who was named an honorary survivor in 2013 for her dedication to the men rescued. “I’ve done this presentation for almost 20 years and it still brings me to my knees, emotionally.”

Roller developed an interest in World War II from her grandfather, a photographer in the Navy who took pictures of the Nagasaki atomic bomb. Her father also served in Vietnam. She learned about the Indy from the book, “In Harm’s Way: The Sinking of the USS Indianapolis and the Extraordinary Story of Its Survivors,” by Doug Stanton, which chronicles the sinking of the Indianapolis during World War II and the events that followed. It serves as the inspiration for Roller’s multimedia tribute to surviving members.

Since 2004, Roller has conducted multimedia presentations for universities and military functions. She dresses in full 1945 vintage attire and tells the story of Indianapolis survivors. The sessions also include some of the remaining survivor(s) and rescue crew members.

After eluding discovery for nearly 72 years, the wreckage of the heavy cruiser was finally located on the floor of the Philippine Sea in 2017 by a research expedition funded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen. Woolston is featured in the film, which Roller says brought him a lot of peace.

“It’s fantastic, there’s no doubt about it. Of course, I never dreamt I’d be able to see it,” Woolston said in The USS Indianapolis: The Final Chapter documentary directed by Kirk Wolfinger. “This is an eyeopener for sure. Beautiful.”

A bittersweet ending to an honorable life

For years, Alaska has honored veterans with trips to see the monuments and memorials in Washington, D.C. — and even has three military-themed aircraft for the occasion.

In 2018, Roller convinced Woolston he needed to experience an Honor Flight to D.C. to visit the national monuments named in his and other veterans’ honor.

Kim with John & his escort to the Honor Flight in 2018.

Together with the Puget Sound Honor Flight program, Roller and other Alaska employees accompanied Woolston and 50+ other veterans of the Korean War, the Vietnam War and World War II to the nation’s capital aboard our “Honoring Those Who Serve” aircraft, which is dedicated to all the brave men and women of America’s military and armed forces, along with their families.

“He went into the Honor Flight and he cried. And that man did not cry,” she said. “He was so touched by that trip and how Alaska treated everybody, he was just so amazed. And, to top it off, when he landed back in Seattle after the flight, he was met at the gate by one of his shipmate’s grandsons in his uniform saluting him. He was blown away.”

A month after his memorable trip to D.C., Woolston passed away. He was 93.

*Before the Honor Flight from Seattle to D.C. Roller flew Woolston up early to get acclimated to the time change & organized a boat ride together around Commencement Bay.*

In 2013 Roller was honored with a special honorary survivor title.

“We nominated and voted you in as an honorary survivor,” Woolston told her when he came out of the meeting room. “You’re one of us now.”

Honoring Those Who Serve

At Alaska and Horizon, we are grateful for the service of active-duty military and veterans, and we appreciate the personal sacrifices they and their families make for us all.

Between Alaska and Horizon, our combined fleet has three special aircraft to honor those who serve. The designs — adorned on two Alaska Boeing aircraft and a Horizon E175 — feature an Alaska Airlines Salutes medallion and a fallen soldier badge, with the Battlefield Cross to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. The planes also feature five rings surrounding the engines, representative of the five branches of the U.S. military, and American flag winglets.

We’re also proud of our “Fallen Soldier Program,” which pays proper tribute to soldiers on the way home to their final resting places. Alaska’s aircraft technicians were the thoughtful catalysts behind the program’s creation, ensuring military protocols are followed when handling the remains of fallen servicemen and women being flown to their final resting place.

Learn how Alaska and Horizon support all service members, past and present.

Pride in Service: A Mahalo to Our Veterans

November 11, 2021
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
8 min read

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Hawaiian Airlines would not carry the storied legacy it does today if it were not for the contributions made by members of the armed forces. Whether they’re employees, guests, or troops transported via our military charter flights, we are honored to call veterans and active-duty service members part of our ʻohana.

Our veteran employees have played a critical role in our success by applying their training and expertise toward ensuring the highest level of safety is maintained when servicing our fleet, supporting our operations and caring for our guests. It’s also because of their pride and dedication that the Hawaiian Airlines Veterans Employee Network (HAVEN) exists today. In 2017, a group of service men and women from various departments formed HAVEN, which gathers military vets throughout our airline, providing them with volunteer, networking and career development opportunities.

The group’s members have also served our communities, including collecting school supplies, donating to military dependents and helping facilitate special accommodations for war heroes traveling with us.

In December 2019, our airline partnered with HAVEN's members to host a special welcome for two World War II veterans, Colonel Clarence Anderson, a World War II pilot and Lieutenant Commander Lou Conter, who was one of three remaining survivors of the USS Arizona at the time. The veterans arrived in Honolulu from Sacramento and were given a water cannon salute, a red carpet, an official recognition bell and a group salute among waving flags.

“We are proud to have served our nation and are grateful for the support of our company and communities,” said Michael Church, manager of facilities and training devices and HAVEN board member. “We are also fortunate to have a forum [HAVEN] to support each other and to provide assistance whenever needed.”

Team Kōkua and HAVEN members at Puʻuloa behind a pile of overgrowth they removed from the stream's edge.

To commemorate Veterans Day this year, HAVEN members and our Team Kōkua employee volunteers joined Hui o Hoʻohonua, a veteran-founded nonprofit dedicated to the restoration of the land and waters of Puʻuloa (Pearl Harbor) via its Mālama Puʻuloa program. Volunteers helped care for the area's stream and fishpond, including clearing weeds, overgrowth and invasive mangrove trees and planting ‘ākulikuli along the shoreline for stability.

Team Kōkua and HAVEN members at Puʻuloa with Hui o Hoʻohonua.

Misty Park

Misty Park, a senior platform engineer of information technology who recently returned from active duty in the Middle East, was among HAVEN's members who volunteered at Puʻuloa.

"Volunteering with HAVEN and Team Kōkua for Veterans Day was a pleasure for me. I enjoyed being able to give back to my community and learn about our 'āina, while also honoring the many amazing people who have served in the nation's armed forces, both at home and overseas," Park said.

"I am an activated Hawaii Air National Guard member who recently returned from an overseas deployment, so volunteering at today's event felt like a wonderful gesture of support for those who have served our country," she added.

As we continue our companywide commemoration of Veterans Day, a handful of our military employees shared their manaʻo (thoughts, knowledge) and moʻōlelo (stories, history) of times in service and at Hawaiian Airlines.

Jim Landers, senior vice president of technical operations and U.S. Navy veteran

Jim Landers

A desire to live in Hawai‘i and fly helicopters led Landers to join the U.S. Navy. Landers completed 27 years of service, providing him with the skills to lead Hawaiian Airlines’ technical operations division.

“Now, eight years into my career at Hawaiian Airlines, I find that I still often look back and reflect on how those experiences [in the Navy] are directly applicable to work I do here,” Landers said.

“The hallmark benefit of my Navy career is the example of leadership and mentorship from some of the very best leaders in our nation – leaders who understand that trust and integrity are essential to successfully leading a team to meet the mission. After all, the real work of those missions (and our company’s mission) is accomplished by people who work hard, in sometimes difficult environments, often with specialized skills, who advocate being sufficiently trained and have the tools needed to do their job.”

John Kim, director of IT Field Services, HAVEN president and U.S. Air Force veteran

John Kim, pictured far right

Kim is of the less than one percent of Americans who serve on active duty in the Armed Forces, and is proud to be employed by “a company that values and employs a diverse population of military veterans.”

“If you look closely at your fellow teammates, you’ll be amazed by the accomplished careers they’ve had before their life at Hawaiian Airlines,” Kim said.

“I know of several accomplished one- and two-star general officers, commanders, senior enlisted, and chief petty officers who proudly call themselves members of the Hawaiian Airlines ‘ohana” he said. “Their wealth of experience adds to this amazing company we are all so proud to be a part of. Everyone has a story, and we must recognize their sacrifices and hear their stories as our veterans deserve to be honored and appreciated.”

Michael Church, manager of facilities and training devices, HAVEN board member and U.S. Navy veteran

Michael Church

Answering the call of duty has been a cornerstone in Church’s life, but his definition of the term evolved throughout his military career.

“Responding to duty means distant deployment away from your family. It means not being able to call on a birthday. It means to take on a tough mission where folks your age with families of their own are getting hurt. It means making hard decisions at the hardest of times for the best outcome possible,” Church reflected.

“Even with all those demanding duties, I loved my service in the Navy,” he said. “It prepared me for life after service and – most importantly – showed my wife and children what it means to sacrifice for the greater good and our nation.”

Michael Guerrera, Airbus A330 first officer and U.S. Air Force veteran

Micheal Guerrera, pictured right

A boyhood quest for a flight suit inspired by “Top Gun” turned into a rewarding career and sense of belonging for Guerrera.

“As a teenager, I remember wanting to have a flight suit. I saw myself as the next ‘Maverick’ and needed to have those green overalls (and not worry about what to wear to work ever again)!” he said. “I planned to join the military right after high school and get one. After a great deal of luck, patience, and sheer brute force determination, I finally got my very own flight suit, which I aptly wore to the local mall that same day. I felt that this one thing [the uniform] would be the reason for a career in the military. Not even close.

“As the years went on, I started to realize that it wasn’t just about owning a flight suit; it was the military community that I served with that made this career so rewarding. They came from all parts of the country with one goal in mind: to serve. Throughout our challenges and struggles, we celebrated, cried and always supported each other.”

Jordan Pingrey, Mark Kerber, Patrick McCarthy, Hawaiian Airlines pilots and active service members of the U.S. Navy Reserve

L to R: Jordan Pingrey, Mark Kerber, Patrick McCarthy

When they aren’t at the controls of our aircraft safely taking our guests to their destinations, Jordan Pingrey, Mark Kerber, Patrick McCarthy and Erin Pierce serve our nation in the U.S. Navy Reserve. They’re members of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 51 (VR-51), a unit composed of active duty and reserve personnel based at Marine Corps Air Station at Kāne‘ohe Bay. Also known as the “Windjammers,” the squadron provides rapid response transport of cargo and personnel utilizing a fleet of C-40A Clipper aircraft (a militarized version of the Boeing 737-700).

“We’re proud of the connection between our civilian work and military service,” said Kerber. “Many former members of the Windjammers continue to fly for Hawaiian Airlines.”

Thumbnail photo: Rod Villacruz, aircraft mechanic at Hawaiian Airlines

On behalf of our ʻohana at Hawaiian Airlines, we offer a warm mahalo to our country’s veterans, active military members and their families for the sacrifices made to keep our country safe.

Book your dream volunteer vacation in Hawaii — “It’ll make you proud” says Alaska employee & Hawaiian

November 9, 2021
Destinations
Shanyn Wright
5 min read

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Imagine you and your loved ones are excitedly planning a future trip to Hawaii. You’re looking forward to sandy beaches and that fresh, cool breeze brushing through your hair, for sure, but this pre-trip eagerness feels more special than any other vacation. More meaningful. Because on this trip, you will be prioritizing time to build a deeper connection with Hawaii through purposeful activities curated by travel2change.

Starting now, Alaska guests can book volunteer experiences in Hawaii with the help of travel2change, a Hawaii-based social and environmental impact organization designed to connect travelers to fun, enriching activities that create a positive benefit for communities across the Hawaiian Islands.

Here’s how it works:

After you’ve booked your trip on alaskaair.com to one of the Hawaiian Islands, you can find volunteer experiences to do during your visit.

Select the island you’ll be visiting.

Choose a category (currently, there are nine options, ranging from beach activities to culture-based experiences).

Select and confirm dates for the activity.

Sleep easy knowing you will be engaging with local organizations and improving your travel experience by deepening your cultural awareness.

Me with my new friend, Mondy Jamshidi Kent of travel2change.

By giving back to Hawaii, not only will you get that tingly, feel-good warmth, but you get to understand this special place in a much more satisfying way than just beachside hangouts and tropical hikes. With travel2change, you will walk away with a deeper, more meaningful connection to Hawaii. And when you think about it, isn’t that what travel is all about? Expand your adventures in a purposeful way, leaving things better than you found them, sharing your mindful encounters with others to do the same. With travel2change, you’re not just on vacation – you’re part of a fulfilling cultural educational experience.

As someone born in Hawaii with cultural and ohana (family) connections, I often get asked what to do while visiting the islands — and honestly, what comes to mind is “visit thoughtfully,” which is why I’m excited about this partnership with travel2change. Last weekend, I was able to try the collaboration out myself. I booked travel to Oahu and signed up to get down-and-dirty in the loi kalo, or taro farm, with my peers and other community partners.

I grew up hearing stories about how my family, including my mom and her six siblings, spent their weekends in the loi kalo, sludging their way through the mud patties just as I did (but with much better practice and skill). So, I was humbled to experience something similar.

Alongside my peers from Alaska and volunteers with travel2change, all of us rolled up our sleeves. We sloshed knee-deep through a mud pond, pulling weeds and breaking up mounds of dirt to engage in the traditional and sustainable Hawaiian practice of readying the loi (irrigated terrace) so that a healthy patch of kalo (taro plant) could grow and thrive.

Aloha spirits cultivate large heart-shaped plants

What’s special about taro plants? A large heart-shaped plant, taro is an edible starchy root vegetable most commonly used in Hawaii to make poi, a paste-like pudding made from pounding the taro plant with water. Poi is a staple in the islands, known to Hawaiians as “the staff of life” because of its history of sustenance, feeding kaiaulu, or communities, for generations as a primary food source. Out of deep respect and gratitude, Hawaiians continue to look after the taro plant in a similar relationship as you would an elder sibling who carries the responsibility of providing for their ohana.

Many of us didn’t know each other’s names just hours prior – and there we were, gleefully slathered in wet dirt, mud-stomping side-by-side in the warm sun with joyful taro-shaped hearts.

And that’s what makes me so proud of Alaska’s partnership with travel2change, the opportunity for visitors near and far to experience that same feeling I felt of positive impact – on the aina (land), kaiaulu, and in the heart of Hawaii.

After being given permission, many of us ventured together to a nearby stream to wash off, plunging into the chilly water following a morning of hard work. Yet, despite the belly-deep laughter and boisterous debriefing from the group as our feet touched the fuzzy rocks five feet below, there was a feeling of stillness.

Fulfillment. If I had listened close enough, I would’ve hoped to hear the echoes of my kupuna (ancestors), making them proud of a job well done. Not just as a Hawaiian, but as someone giving back in thanks for all that Hawaii has given me.

Watch me & other volunteers in action (until :40) on KHON’s Living808

Malama Hawaii

Since the pandemic, local residents and state officials have encouraged visitors to discover ways to malama, or take care of, the Hawaiian Islands.

As an Alaska employee and Native Hawaiian, I’m proud we came together to find a way to make it easier for guests to book rewarding travel experiences through travel2change.

5 ways to malama (care for) Hawaii

After a tumultuous year, it was refreshing to finally be together again and to give back.

Book your next trip to Hawaii today at alaskaair.com.

A new Alaska program aims to bring careers into reach for aspiring BIPOC pilots

November 8, 2021
Company
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

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Over the past year, a group of Black Alaska pilots got together to find creative ways to make aviation careers more attainable for aspiring pilots.

Led by Ron Limes, an Alaska captain since 1999, the group worked in partnership with their colleagues, peers and leaders from across our company, and today we are excited to launch a new program called True North.

Alaska’s True North program helps students gain the confidence and skills required to fly for a commercial airline once they graduate and offers financial assistance along the way, while also looking to increase the diversity of our industry.

“I have always dreamed of becoming a pilot. While I chose the military route before joining Alaska, I know what a financial burden flight school can be on students and their families,” said Alaska Capt. Ron Limes. “When I became a pilot, I realized how few pilots looked like me. I am excited by this program because it will remove so many barriers – whether that be financial or otherwise – for BIPOC pilots to have full and rewarding careers in aviation.”

*Limes shortly after flying Our Commitment plane — a special aircraft meant to spread the word about UNCF and spark conversation around the importance of education, equity and representation.*

The program will start with students from two historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) – Delaware State University and University of Maryland-Eastern Shore. We hope to expand the program to other schools in the future, as well as broader career opportunities within Alaska.

What’s included in the program:

True North is a persistent pilot development program to source, train and place candidates in entry level aviation roles.
For now, True North will fund four selected students’ flight lab fees from post-instrument rating through R-ATP.
Students enrolled in True North are offered guaranteed first officer positions at Horizon Air – post college graduation, and a confirmed path to Alaska
Internship and mentorship opportunities with Alaska pilots will be part of the program.

True North will also help us create an inclusive culture at Alaska and Horizon where everyone feels like they belong and can have long rewarding careers. Earlier this year, we committed to increasing our company’s racial diversity at all levels to 30% by 2025.

*Captain JP Wilson. Students enrolled in True North are offered guaranteed first officer positions at Horizon Air for two years post college graduation, and Alaska for three years.*

The development of True North supports our recent commitment to the HBCU Partnership Challenge, which encourages private companies to partner with historically Black colleges and universities.

“Education and opportunity transform the lives of talented young people. I am excited Alaska will help bring brilliant minds and the next generation into aviation,” said Constance von Muehlen, COO of Alaska Airlines. “We look forward to meeting the future of our company through this program.”

Interested in flying for Alaska or Horizon, learn more and apply today at https://lnkd.in/gyd_3P6.

Meet the Makers: Rethink Happy Hour with Kō Hana

November 4, 2021
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
4 min read

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Kō (sugarcane) is king at Kō Hana Distillers, where native heirloom varietals, grown on its Oʻahu farm, are pressed, distilled, aged in oak barrels and made into small batches of what is Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum.

Photo credit: Kō Hana

Kō, or sugarcane, being harvested and bundled for processing at Kō Hana's farm in Kunia.

“The majority of rum in the world is made from molasses, the waste product of industrial sugar. Our Agricole style celebrates the sugarcane – akin to a winery loving the grape,” Kyle Reutner, general manager of Kō Hana, explained.

The local rum maker was the latest business featured in Meet the Makers Series, a virtual showcase presented by Mana Up and Hawaiian Airlines that supports local businesses while giving viewers an up-close, immersive look at some of Hawaiʻi’s emerging brands.

The rum connoisseurs behind Kō Hana, which has been making its spirits since 2014, joined Mana Up’s business accelerator program in early 2018. The experience, Reutner says, has been incredible, helping his team propel the business forward and better navigate the local retail landscape.

Photo credit: Kō Hana

Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum is made in small batches and bottled by hand with care.

Reutner says he will always consider the business a farm first despite his team’s success in establishing a prized local spirit. “We have a farm-to-bottle mentality. Every day our work is different, though growing and harvesting sugarcane tends to be incredibly laborious (and rewarding), and our work in the distillery will always be very scientific and intensive,” Reutner said.

“From fermentation to distillation, the smallest changes in the cane or environment can lead to vast differences in flavor. We see our art in the harnessing of those flavors and expression of Hawaiʻi’s terroir,” he added.

Photo credit: Kō Hana

Bottles of rum lined up at Kō Hana's boutique tasting room in Kunia.

Those exploring Oʻahu can visit Kō Hana's facility in Kunia, book a tour of its farm and distillery, and top off the experience with an intimate tasting of its Agricole rums.

“We always welcome rum lovers to come down to our farm so we can crack open a bottle, talk story (have a conversation) over rum and teach people about our region, the Kō and our production processes,” Reutner said.”

Kō Hana hosted its live Meet the Makers event last week, providing a behind-the-scenes experience. Missed it? Click here to watch the video, where viewers take a virtual tour of Kō Hana Rum’s farm and learn how to make cocktails using its exclusive Meet the Makers tasting set.

Photo credit: Kō Hana

Kō Hana's cane field, located behind its distillery, in Kunia.

Want to try Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum yourself? You can purchase an exclusive Meet the Makers tasting set and browse products from past Makers at HouseofManaUp.com/Meet-the-Makers. Shoppers who use their Hawaiian Airlines® Bank of Hawaii World Elite Mastercard® earn two additional bonus HawaiianMiles per $1 spent on all purchases.*

*Partner bonus miles earned through this offer are in addition to standard miles earned using your Hawaiian Airlines^® Bank of Hawaii World Elite Mastercard^®. No miles are awarded on cash back transactions. Please allow 4-6 weeks for miles to post to your HawaiianMiles account. HawaiianMiles standard terms and conditions apply. Additional restrictions may apply, see partner for details. Barclays Bank Delaware is not affiliated with Mana Up or the merchants participating in the Meet the Makers series or the HawaiianMiles Marketplace.

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

100 places you can go from Seattle

November 4, 2021
Stories
Alaska Airlines
5 min read

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Pack your eco-friendly sunscreen and get your dancing shoes ready because we’re jetting off to Miami starting in June. This hot destination marks our 100th nonstop route from Seattle.

To celebrate this milestone, we’ve compiled a list of all 100 destinations you can fly to from our hometown!

Where will you fly to next?

1. ABQ

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Reach new heights

2. ALW

Walla Walla, Wash.

Fly to wine country

3. ANC

Anchorage, Alaska

Catch the Northern Lights

4. ATL

Atlanta, Georgia

Head to A-Town

5. AUS

Austin, Texas

Listen to live music

6. BIL

Billings, Montana

Become one with nature

7. BLI

Bellingham, Wash.

Namaste in the PNW

8. BNA

Nashville, Tenn.

Fly to the ‘Music City’

9. BOI

Boise, Idaho

Make some noise in Boise

10. BOS

Boston, Mass.

Have a wicked good time

11. BUR

Burbank, Calif.

Step on a movie set

12. BWI

Baltimore, Maryland

Check out a book

13. BZE

Belize City

Escape to the tropics

14. BZN

Bozeman, Montana

Have fun on the farm

15. CHS

Charleston, South Carolina

Do the Charleston in Charleston

16. CLE

Cleveland, Ohio

Visit Superman’s birthplace

17. CMH

Columbus, Ohio

See ‘the best’ zoos in the country

18. CUN

Cancun, Mexico

Have fun day or night

19. CVG

Cincinnati, Ohio

Head to museums

20. DAL

Dallas, Texas

Go along for the ride

21. DCA

Washington, DC

Learn about American history

22. DEN

Denver, Colorado

Check out the square

23. DFW

Dallas, Texas

Admire architecture

24. DTW

Detroit, Michigan

Pack your mittens

25. EAT

Wenatchee, Wash.

Eat by the lake

26. ELP

El Paso, Texas

Head for the hills

27. EUG

Eugene, Oregon

Smell the wild flowers

28. EWR

Newark, New Jersey

Visit the Brick City

29. FAI

Fairbanks, Alaska

Bring your list to the North Pole

30. FAT

Fresno, Calif.

Peek Yosemite’s Peaks

31. FCA

Kalispell, Montana

Dip your toes in Glacier Natl. Park

32. FLL

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Pack your best sun hat

33. GEG

Spokane, Wash.

Say hi to a hydro dam

34. GTF

Great Falls, Montana

Frolic in a meadow

35. HDN

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Unwind with a steamy cup of joe

36. HLN

Helena, Montana

See the Queen City of the Rockies

37. HNL

Honolulu, Hawaii

Lose your stress in paradise

38. IAD

Dulles, Virginia

Get lost in space *at the museum

39. IAH

Houston, Texas

Have hot sauce in your bag

40. ICT

Wichita, Kansas

Skip through sunflower fields

41. IDA

Idaho Falls, Idaho

Fall in love with Idaho Falls

42. IND

Indianapolis, Indiana

Catch the golden hour

43. JAC

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Hit the slopes

44. JFK

New York, New York

Head to the big apple (or sculpture)

45. JNU

Juneau, Alaska

Walk on ice

46. KOA

Kailua, Hawaii

Ride the wave

47. KTN

Ketchikan, Alaska

Have a wild time

48. LAS

Las Vegas, Nevada

Roll the dice, responsibly

49. LAX

Los Angeles, Calif.

See what the hype is about

50. LIH

Lihue, Hawaii

Find your perfect wave

51. MCI

Kansas City, Missouri

Stand next to a 18-foot shuttlecock

52. MCO

Orlando, Florida

Spot Mickey

53. MFR

Medford, Oregon

Drive through the Redwoods

54. MIA

Miami, Florida

Tickets for our new nonstop service from SEA to MIA starting June 16 is available to book now on alaskaair.com.

Book our 100th destination from SEA

55. MKE

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

See Elvis Presley’s Harley

56. MRY

Monterey, Calif.

Stop over in Big Sur

57. MSO

Missoula, Montana

Rent mountain bikes

58. MSP

Minneapolis, Minnesota

See the sweet cherry

59. MSY

New Orleans, Louisiana

Indulge in beignets

60. OAK

Oakland, Calif.

Cross over to the city

61. OGG

Maui, Hawaii

Malama Hawaii

62. OKC

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

See the Skydance Bridge

63. OMA

Omaha, Nebraska

Wander the Old Market District

64. ONT

Ontario, California

Out of office in Ontario

65. ORD

Chicago, Illinois

Take a selfie with the bean

66. PDX

Portland, Oregon

Stay weird & eat donuts

67. PHL

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Go for the cheesesteak

68. PHX

Phoenix, AZ

Find the garden in the desert

69. PIT

Pittsburgh, PA

Bridge the gap

70. PSC

Pasco, WA

Pass the time by in the countryside

71. PSP

Palm Springs, Calif.

Soak up the sun & color inspo

72. PUW

Pullman, Wash.

Unplug in Pullman

73. PVR

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Stroll PVR’s promenade

74. RDD

Redding, California

Rejuvenate in Redding

75. RDM

Redmond, Oregon

Recharge in Redmond

76. RDU

Raleigh, North Carolina

Cruise in the Carolinas

77. RNO

Reno, Nevada

Drive to the Automobile Museum

78. RSW

Fort Myers, Florida

See the alligators later

79. SAN

San Diego, Calif.

Slow down in San Diego

80. SAT

San Antonio, Texas

Remember the Alamo

81. SBA

Santa Barbara, California

Sip, dine and unwind

82. SBP

San Luis Obispo, Calif.

Sit still with a view

83. SFO

San Francsico, Calif.

Get the full house experience

Photo of child kayaking in yellow kayak with a white lighthouse with red roof on the island in front of him.

84. SIT

Sitka, Alaska

Find what floats your boat

85. SJC

San Jose, Calif.

See seashells by the seashore

86. SJD

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Arch you wanting to be here?

87. SLC

Salt Lake City, Utah

It’s OK to be salty here

88. SMF

Sacramento, Calif.

Don’t sleep on Sacramento

89. SNA

Orange County, Calif.

Orange you glad you came here?

90. STL

St. Louis, Missouri

Don’t miss Missouri

91. STS

Santa Rosa, Calif.

Surfs up in Santa Rosa

92. SUN

Sun Valley, Idaho

Ski in Sun Valley

93. TPA

Tampa, Florida

Amuse yourself at Busch Gardens

94. TUS

Tucson, Arizona

Hike a canyon

95. YEG

Edmonton, AB, Canada

Go to Banff

96. YKM

Yakima, WA

Pick farm fresh produce

97. YLW

Kelowna, BC, Canada

Indulge in vacation mode

98. YVR

Vancouver, BC, Canada

Discover the Dumpling Trail

99. YYC

Calgary, AB, Canada

Visit during the Calgary Stampede

100. YYJ

Victoria, BC, Canada

See the Salish Sea

Boxed Water and paper cups are in, 1.8M pounds of plastics are out: Alaska’s inflight service just got better for the planet

November 3, 2021
Sustainability
Alaska Airlines
6 min read

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Starting tomorrow, we are eliminating the biggest sources of plastic waste on our flights: plastic water bottles and plastic water cups.

This giant step in the journey to reduce our impact on the environment removes 1.8 million pounds of single-use plastics from our aircraft over the next year – equivalent to the weight of 18 Boeing 737 aircraft.

We’re replacing plastic water bottles on board with Boxed Water cartons. Boxed Water packages purified water in 100% recyclable cartons made from plant materials, and guests surveyed report that they prefer Boxed Water over plastic-bottled water at a rate of 2-to-1.

And in the Main Cabin, flight attendants will pour water into recyclable paper cups versus plastic — removing more than 22 million disposable plastic cups from our fleet.

“We have a great recycling program, but we know single-use plastics have a big impact on the ecosystem and inevitably some will end up in a landfill or an ocean,” said Todd Traynor-Corey, managing director of guest products. “In order to reduce our waste footprint – and ultimately our carbon footprint – we need to actually eliminate single-use plastic. And the biggest offender is plastic water bottles.”

For now, plastic cups will still be needed inflight for soda and alcoholic beverages, which can leak through paper cups. But Traynor-Corey’s team is exploring sustainable alternatives for those cups as well.

Our food & beverage team has committed to reduce plastic packaging for our most wasteful food and beverage items by 2025.

Our commitment to the environment

One of our core values is doing the right thing and that means reducing the impact of air travel on the environment. Our biggest burden comes from jet-fuel emissions, so our goal is to be the most fuel-efficient domestic airline.

To get there, we’re upgrading our fleet to more efficient 737-9 aircraft and continuing to improve the efficiency of our operation. And we’ve charted an ambitious course to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, including through the use of sustainable aviation jet fuels, or SAF.

We also continue to be an industry leader in reducing inflight plastic waste. Horizon Air employees started recycling inflight paper, plastic and glass waste in the 1980s, and over the last decade Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air flight attendants have captured tons of recyclables that would have otherwise gone to landfills.

In 2018, we were the first U.S. airline to eliminate plastic straws and stir sticks from our flights and lounges, and we have integrated compostable packaging and cutlery into our inflight service. This year, we pioneered a pre-order system for fresh food so guests get the items they want on flights, minimizing the waste of both food and packaging. We also encourage guests to bring their own reusable water bottles and #FillBeforeYouFly.

“We live in and fly to some of the most beautiful places on earth, but the health of these habitats and communities requires active stewardship of our impact, and reducing plastic waste is a key step,” said Diana Birkett Rakow, vice president of public affairs and sustainability. “We’re fortunate to have the most caring employees in the business – and that care extends to the planet.”

Why the Boxed Water carton is better

Our food and beverage team started researching alternatives to plastic water bottles in early 2019, evaluating packaging for sustainability and inflight durability, as well as the taste of the water inside.

“It hasn’t been a simple process, but we saw this as an investment worth our time,” said Traynor-Corey.

[inset]

Members of Alaska’s Green Team Employee Resource Group also helped weigh the impacts and costs of plastic, paper, aluminum and other recyclable materials. Boxed Water stood out because it is truly renewable. The packaging is made of 92% plant material sourced from sustainably harvested trees. Even the resealable cap comes from leftover materials in the paper-making process. The packaging can also be recycled in most of our hubs.

“Paper was the best, weight-wise, and for recycling cost, and the overall best way to reduce our footprint on the aircraft,” said Kiel Fullmer, a customer service agent and Green Team member who helped with the research. “It packs flat if a destination isn’t recycle-friendly and can be stowed for the return to a hub. Overall, it was a win-win for the operation and our sustainability plan.”

Flight attendants began serving small cartons of Boxed Water to First Class guests and on our Q400 flights last spring. “We got a lot of positive feedback organically from people who were flying and thought it was cool,” said Traynor-Corey. “And our employees who really value sustainability got excited about it.”

“When they ask for water, I tease them and say ‘I only have milk!’ Then I give them the cute little Boxed Water. I like how it becomes a topic of conversation. It shows the company is more respectful of nature and the environment.”
– Orly, Alaska Airlines flight attendant for 10 years

“Guests will hold the carton up to the window to take a photo. When they’re done with it, it’s easier to break down, and it makes more room in our recycling. It helps us with our space.”
— Greg, Alaska and Horizon flight attendant for more than five years

“The best thing is to bring your own refillable bottle of water, but we know that’s not always possible and people need water inflight,” Birkett Rakow says. “Boxed Water is the most sustainable water packaging we’ve found.”

What’s next

The move to Boxed Water cartons and paper water cups cuts out our most wasteful plastic items, but this is just one step in the bigger journey. Our food and beverage team is actively exploring more sustainable options for the remaining inflight plastic cups used for soda and alcoholic beverages, as well as cutlery, napkins and overall food packaging.

“We are the right airline to lead this,” said Traynor-Corey. “Sustainability is part of our DNA.”

What Alaska guests can do

When you travel with us, you can help us be a more sustainable airline:

#FillBeforeYouFly: You can reduce your plastic use when you travel and bring your own empty reusable water bottle (or carton) to fill at a station once you’re through airport security. Next time you fly, share your water bottle photo with @AlaskaAir and we’ll work with our partner Bonneville Environmental Foundation to plant a tree on your behalf.
Offset your carbon footprint by investing in carbon offsets through our partner The Good Traveler
Donate your Mileage Plan miles to environmental charities like the National Forest Foundation, which is also a partner with Boxed Water.
If you’re heading to the beach, be sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen and check out other eco-friendly travel items from our friends at Boxed Water is Better®.
Learn more about our goals in our 2020 LIFT Sustainability Report

*Please note: Per our current policy, flight attendants are not able to fill guests’ personal water bottles or containers onboard.

Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. Announces Expiration & Results of its Previously Announced Cash Tender Offers for Any & All of its 7.375% Series 2020-1A Pass Through Certificates due 2027 & 11.250% Series 2020-1B Pass Through Certificates due 2025

November 2, 2021
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
8 min read

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HONOLULU – Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. (the “Company”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (“Holdings”) (Nasdaq: HA), announced today the expiration as of 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on November 1, 2021, of its previously announced offers to purchase for cash (collectively, the “Tender Offers” and each, a “Tender Offer”) any and all of its 7.375% Series 2020-1A Pass Through Certificates due 2027 (the “Class A Certificates”) and 11.250% Series 2020-1B Pass Through Certificates due 2025 (the “Class B Certificates” and, together with the Class A Certificates, the “Certificates”) as set forth in the Company’s Offer to Purchase, dated September 23, 2021 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified as of this date, the “Offer to Purchase”).

The Tender Offers were made pursuant to and are subject to, and conditioned upon, the satisfaction or waiver of certain conditions described in the Offer to Purchase.

According to information received from Global Bondholder Services Corporation, the Tender and Information Agent for the Tender Offers, as of 11:59 p.m., New York City time, on November 1, 2021 (such date and time, the "Expiration Date"), the Company had received, and informed Global Bondholder Services Corporation it had accepted for purchase, valid tenders from holders of the Certificates as outlined in the table below.

Series of Certificates

CUSIP Number(1)

Original

Aggregate
Pool Balance
at Issuance/ Principal Amount

Current

Aggregate Pool

Balance Outstanding (2)

Amortization Factor(3)

Original

Aggregate
Pool Balance/ Principal Amount Tendered

Current

Aggregate Pool

Balance Tendered

Percentage of Current Aggregate Pool Balance(2) Tendered

7.375% Series 2020-1A Pass Through Certificates due 2027

41983PAA7
(144A)

U2468PAA0
(Reg S)

$216,976,000

$192,072,772

0.8852258

$162,476,000

$143,827,947

74.88%

11.250% Series 2020-1B Pass Through Certificates due 2025

41983PAB5
(144A)

U2468PAB8
(Reg S)

$45,010,000

$36,563,679

0.8123456

$21,000,000

$17,059,258

46.66%

(1) No representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP numbers listed above and in the Offer to Purchase (as defined herein) or printed on the Certificates. They are provided solely for the convenience of Holders of the Certificates.

(2) As of the Expiration Date. Reflects principal repayments or distributions, as the case may be, made prior to the Expiration Date on each class of Certificates but does not reflect any scheduled principal repayments or distributions after the Expiration Date. Payment with respect to Certificates accepted for purchase pursuant to an offer will be made only on outstanding pool balances or principal amounts (as applicable) of the Certificates as of the Expiration Date.

(3) As of the Expiration Date. The “Amortization Factor” sets forth, with respect to the Certificates, the percentage of the originally issued face amount which remains outstanding as of the Expiration Date. The relevant Amortization Factor would change in the event of any principal repayment or principal distribution on any class of Certificates after the Expiration Date.

As of the Expiration Date, the percentages of the aggregate pool balance of each class of Certificates as referenced in the chart above and 70.37% of the aggregate outstanding pool balance of the Certificates, on a combined basis, had been tendered and not validly withdrawn, and have been accepted for purchase in accordance with the terms of the Offer to Purchase. Settlement is expected to occur on November 4, 2021.

Citigroup Global Markets Inc. is the Dealer Manager in the Tender Offers. Global Bondholder Services Corporation has been retained to serve as the Tender and Information Agent for the Tender Offers. Persons with questions regarding the Tender Offers should contact Citigroup at (800) 558-3745 (toll-free) or (212) 723-6106 (collect). Requests for copies of the Offer to Purchase and other related materials should be directed to Global Bondholder Services Corporation at (banks or brokers) (212) 430-3774 or (toll free) (866) 807-2200 or by email to contact@gbsc-usa.com.

None of the Company, the Dealer Manager, the Tender and Information Agent, the Trustee (as defined in the Offer to Purchase), the Subordination Agent (as defined in the Offer to Purchase), nor any of their respective directors, officers, employees or affiliates makes any recommendation as to whether holders should tender their Certificates pursuant to the applicable Tender Offer, and no one has been authorized by any of them to make such a recommendation. Holders must make their own decisions as to whether to tender their Certificates, and, if so, the pool balance of Certificates as to which action is to be taken.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation to buy or an offer to purchase or sell any securities. Neither this press release nor the Offer to Purchase is an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities. The Tender Offers are being made only pursuant to the Offer to Purchase and only in such jurisdictions as is permitted under applicable law. In any jurisdiction in which the Tender Offers are required to be made by a licensed broker or dealer, the Tender Offers will be deemed to be made on behalf of the Company by the Dealer Manager, or one or more registered brokers or dealers that are licensed under the laws of such jurisdiction.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian® has led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for each of the past 17 years (2004-2020) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Consumer surveys by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and TripAdvisor have placed Hawaiian among the top of all domestic airlines serving Hawai‘i.

Now in its 92nd year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawai‘i's biggest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers approximately 130 flights within the Hawaiian Islands, daily nonstop flights between Hawai‘i and 16 U.S. gateway cities – more than any other airline – as well as service connecting Honolulu and American Samoa, Japan, South Korea, Sydney and Tahiti. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian’s Auckland and Brisbane flights remain suspended.

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.

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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” variations of such words, and similar expressions are also intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are and will be subject to many risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to the Company’s operations and business environment, all of which may cause the Company’s actual results to be materially different from any future results, expressed or implied, in these forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, the Company’s strategy; the continuing and developing effects of the spread of COVID-19 on the Company's business operations and financial condition; the availability of future sources of capital, which could change as a result of market conditions or for other reasons, interest rates and corporate considerations; the Company's ability to generate sufficient cash and manage its available cash; and changes in the Company's future capital needs.

The risks, uncertainties and assumptions referred to above that could cause the Company’s results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements also include the risks, uncertainties and assumptions discussed from time to time in Holdings’ other public filings and public announcements, including the Holdings’ Annual Report on Form 10-K and Holdings’ Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other documents that may be filed by Holdings from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements included in this document are based on information available to Holdings and the Company on the date hereof. Neither Holdings nor the Company undertakes to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events, circumstances or new information that may arise after the date hereof even if experience or future changes make it clear that any projected results expressed or implied herein will not be realized.

Hawaiian Airlines Appoints Alanna James as Managing Director of Sustainability Initiatives, Ashlee Kishimoto as Managing Director of Investor Relations

November 1, 2021
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
4 min read

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HONOLULU – Hawaiian Airlines today appointed Alanna James as its managing director of sustainability initiatives. In this new role, James will lead Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) programs across Hawai‘i’s largest and longest-serving airline, overseeing its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, advancement of diversity and inclusion efforts, and other sustainability initiatives.

“Alanna’s broad understanding of our operations and her strategic approach will allow us to accelerate our growing portfolio of ESG projects to continue making us a more sustainable airline,” said Avi Mannis, senior vice president for marketing at Hawaiian Airlines.

James has been Hawaiian’s managing director of investor relations since mid-2019. Since joining the airline in 2011, she has held positions in strategy and transformation, financial planning and analysis, and previously oversaw the carrier’s former ‘Ohana by Hawaiian turboprop operation. Prior to Hawaiian, she worked in strategy and business development at TACA Airlines in El Salvador. James holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College, and a master’s degree in business administration from IESE Business School in Barcelona, Spain.

Alanna James, managing director of sustainability initiatives

“I’m honored and look forward to advancing the exciting and impactful ESG work of our team as we expand our business with a focus on efficiency and sustainability,” James said.

Hawaiian has been aggressively strengthening its sustainability efforts, as noted in the company’s 2021 Corporate Kuleana report. Addressing climate change remains one of Hawaiian’s key ESG priorities. The airline has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 through ongoing fleet investments, more efficient flying, carbon offsets, and industry advocacy for air traffic control reform and sustainable aviation fuel development and proliferation. Starting this year, Hawaiian has pledged to offset emissions from international flights above 2019 levels, in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).

Ashlee Kishimoto, managing director of investor relations

Hawaiian also announced the appointment of Ashlee Kishimoto, Hawaiian’s managing director of human resources operations since 2018, to managing director of investor relations, effective today. Kishimoto, who previously headed the investor relations department between 2013 and 2017, will be responsible for managing Hawaiian’s communication with investors and other financial stakeholders.

“Ashlee’s strong financial reporting background will provide investors a clear view of our financial outlook as we navigate our emergence from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Shannon Okinaka, chief financial officer at Hawaiian Airlines.

In addition to her investor relations experience, Kishimoto was director of SEC reporting and SOX compliance, and managing director of corporate audit. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of San Francisco.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian® has led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for each of the past 17 years (2004-2020) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation and was named No. 1 U.S. airline by Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Readers Choice Awards. Consumer surveys by Travel + Leisure and TripAdvisor have placed Hawaiian among the top of all domestic airlines serving Hawaiʻi.

Now in its 92nd year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawaiʻi's biggest and longest-serving airline. Hawaiian offers approximately 130 flights within the Hawaiian Islands, daily nonstop flights between Hawaiʻi and 16 U.S. gateway cities – more than any other airline – as well as service connecting Honolulu and American Samoa, Japan, South Korea, Sydney, and Tahiti. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian’s Auckland and Brisbane flights remain suspended.

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.

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.

Bringing my Alaska Native heritage into the summer internship experience

November 1, 2021
Company
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

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During Native American Heritage Month (also known as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month) this November, we’re highlighting the lived experiences, cultures, traditions and histories of Native people. The following story is from Charlotte Flynn, an Alaska Native and a 2021 summer intern for Alaska who worked on the corporate communications team.

This summer, I had the opportunity to intern with Alaska Airlines in Anchorage through First Alaskans Institute (FAI), an Alaska Native nonprofit working to advance the capacities of Alaska Natives and their communities. I applied for the FAI internship program to learn more about my culture and history and gain valuable professional experience. Throughout the internship, I participated in seminars and learned from community leaders and elders about language revitalization, Alaska Native tribal governance, Native representation in media and arts, and dialogues about racial equity. It has been an incredibly enriching experience.

On my boat in Seward, fishing for silver salmon.

I spent my first two years of college at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, which was quite a change for me, but I learned a lot being in a new environment. A class in indigenous studies and tribal government spurred me to learn more and realize how important it was to understand my history. My grandma, who is Inupiaq, always told me to be proud of who I am and where I come from, and I’ve realized the importance of that as I’ve gotten older. I have always felt a responsibility to give back to my people and to make a positive impact. It has been a journey of reconnecting with my culture and embracing it.

During my internship, I worked on a meaningful project empowering me to use my voice and Alaska Native values. I created a flyer to bring awareness of career pipelines and opportunities at Alaska Airlines for young people and Alaska Natives in rural communities. I’m so proud to feature a Yup’ik language translation on the flyer; it says, “Tengluten Ciunerkarvneq Alaska Airlines – Akun,” which translates to “Fly into your Future.” When I visited King Salmon for subsistence fishing this summer, I spoke with a Yup’ik culture educator about the region’s languages. It meant a lot to me because Alaska Native language representation and revitalization are so important, and I hope it resonates and inspires young people. It’s been an amazing experience to learn about corporate communication and human resources while connecting them to support Alaska Native communities.

I’m continuously trying to connect with my Alaska Native culture and how I can serve my community. That looks like: conversations with my grandma about growing up in Brevig Mission and traditional ways of life, learning how to introduce myself in the Inupiaq language, understanding the land and waters I’m from, listening to podcasts about contemporary indigenous life, and much more. After attaining my degree and pursuing a career, I look forward to continuing my culture and practicing my traditions.