Yes, Southwest Airlines began flying to Hawaii in 2018, marking a significant expansion of their route network.
This new service included several destinations in Hawaii, and it quickly became a popular choice for travelers looking to visit the islands.
Southwest’s entry into the Hawaiian market introduced competitive pricing and its renowned no-frills service model, appealing to budget-conscious travelers.
In 2018, Southwest Airlines launched flights to several Hawaiian destinations, including Honolulu and Kahului. This expansion allowed the airline to tap into the lucrative market of inter-island travel and mainland-to-Hawaii flights.
Travelers appreciated Southwest’s unique policies, such as two free checked bags, which set them apart from many competitors.
The airline’s focus on customer service and affordability gained them a loyal customer base eager to experience Hawaiian vacations without breaking the bank.
The addition of Hawaii routes also led to increased competition among airlines, which resulted in lower fares for consumers.
Many travelers were excited about the ease of booking and the possibility of earning Rapid Rewards points on their Hawaiian adventures.
This expansion not only benefited Southwest’s customers but also had a positive impact on tourism in Hawaii, as more visitors were able to travel affordably to the islands.
The following table outlines the key features of Southwest Airlines’ Hawaiian service compared to other airlines:
| Airline | Free Checked Bags | In-Flight Entertainment | Frequent Flyer Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines | 2 | WiFi Available | Rapid Rewards |
| Hawaiian Airlines | 1 | Movies & TV Shows | HawaiianMiles |
| United Airlines | 1 | Movies & TV Shows | MileagePlus |
| Alaska Airlines | 1 | Movies & TV Shows | Mileage Plan |
Pro Tip: When booking flights to Hawaii with Southwest, consider using Rapid Rewards points. This can save you a significant amount on airfare, especially during peak travel seasons.
Hawaiian Airlines vs. Competitors
Hawaiian Airlines differentiates itself from competitors like United and Alaska by focusing on the unique culture and experience of Hawaii.
They offer complimentary meals and a more extensive in-flight entertainment system that features Hawaiian-themed content.
Hawaiian Airlines also promotes its connections to the Hawaiian islands, providing a more localized travel experience that many travelers appreciate.
In contrast, Southwest Airlines focuses on budget-friendly fares and straightforward customer service, which appeals to a different segment of the market.
Both airlines have their unique strengths, making them suitable for various types of travelers.
To help you plan your trip, here’s a simple flight fare calculator that estimates the cost of flying with Southwest Airlines to Hawaii based on the departure city and travel dates:
Flight Fare Estimator
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only.
Will Southwest Airlines fly to Hawaii in 2018?
Yes, they began flying there in 2018.
What destinations does Southwest Airlines serve in Hawaii?
Southwest Airlines serves destinations such as Honolulu and Kahului in Hawaii.
What are the benefits of flying with Southwest Airlines to Hawaii?
Travelers enjoy benefits such as two free checked bags, no change fees, and a straightforward booking process.
How does Hawaiian Airlines compare to Southwest Airlines?
Hawaiian Airlines offers complimentary meals and a more extensive in-flight entertainment system, while Southwest focuses on budget-friendly travel.
Can I earn Rapid Rewards points when flying to Hawaii?
Yes, you can earn Rapid Rewards points when flying to Hawaii with Southwest Airlines.
🌺 Hawaiian Airlines · Route Network
Interactive map · Click markers for airport details · Routes color-coded by region
🌴 Neighbor Island
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Kahului (OGG)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Lihue (LIH)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Kona (KOA)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Hilo (ITO)
🗽 North America
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Los Angeles (LAX)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ San Francisco (SFO)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Seattle (SEA)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ New York (JFK)
- Maui (OGG) ⇔ San Francisco (SFO)
🌏 International / Polynesia
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Tokyo (HND/NRT)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Seoul (ICN)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Sydney (SYD)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Auckland (AKL)
- Honolulu (HNL) ⇔ Papeete (PPT)