Hawaiian Airlines is entering 2025 navigating fleet changes that reflect the carrier’s dual identity as both Hawaii’s inter-island connector and a long-haul operator linking the islands to major markets across North America and Asia-Pacific. With 75 aircraft in service as of September 2025, the Honolulu-based airline is preparing for a pivotal year shaped by the planned exit of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and the continued expansion of its cargo operations.
Inter-Island Workhorse: Boeing 717s Remain Critical
At the core of Hawaiian’s narrowbody operations is the Boeing 717-200, long considered indispensable to the state’s air transportation network. Hawaiian operates 19 of the aircraft, which are optimized for the short, high-frequency flights—often under 45 minutes—that connect Honolulu with Kahului, Kona, Lihue and other island airports.
Configured with 128 seats, the 717s perform multiple daily cycles and remain reliable despite their age. While the aircraft type is no longer in production and eventual replacement is inevitable, Hawaiian continues to rely heavily on the 717s to maintain the essential air bridge that keeps Hawaii’s islands interconnected.
A321neo Extends Reach to the U.S. Mainland
For longer narrowbody routes, Hawaiian turns to its fleet of 18 Airbus A321neos. These aircraft serve key West Coast destinations such as Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle, as well as smaller mainland markets that benefit from the A321neo’s fuel efficiency and range.
The 189-seat model has become a strategic asset for Hawaiian, complementing its widebody fleet while allowing the airline to compete effectively against mainland carriers on thinner transpacific routes. Its operating economics and flexibility also support Hawaiian’s effort to modernize its fleet and fine-tune network planning.
A330-200 Widebodies Anchor Long-Haul Network
Hawaiian’s long-haul backbone remains the Airbus A330-200. The airline operates 24 of the widebodies, each seating 278 passengers. These aircraft fly to major hubs such as Los Angeles, New York and Boston, as well as key Asia-Pacific destinations including Tokyo, Seoul and Sydney.
The A330-200 has been central to Hawaiian’s international growth, providing both range and the right capacity for Hawaii’s demand profile. With no new widebody orders pending and the 787-9 program ending, the airline is expected to rely on the A330-200 for years to come. While other carriers phase out older A330 variants, Hawaiian continues to find strong operational value in the type.
Dreamliners Exit as Strategy Resets
One of the most significant developments for Hawaiian is the planned transfer of all four of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to Alaska Airlines by spring 2026. Delivered between 2023 and 2024 and configured with 300 seats, the Dreamliners were originally intended to usher in a new era of fuel-efficient long-haul flying.
Instead, the withdrawal of the 787s marks a decisive shift toward fleet simplification. The move highlights economic pressures as well as the airline’s renewed focus on the A330-200 as its primary long-haul aircraft. The transition also reflects Hawaiian’s increasingly intertwined future with Alaska Airlines.
Cargo Operation Expands Through Amazon Partnership
Beyond its passenger services, Hawaiian has built a notable cargo presence by operating 10 Airbus A330-300P2F freighters for Amazon Air. The airline is the first U.S. passenger carrier to operate widebody aircraft dedicated solely to Amazon’s logistics network.
These freighters do not support Hawaiian’s passenger routes; instead, they operate across North America for Amazon, providing the airline with revenue streams less vulnerable to tourism-driven fluctuations. The partnership showcases Hawaiian’s willingness to diversify its business model and leverage its fleet expertise beyond typical passenger operations.
Outlook: Fleet Decisions Will Shape Hawaiian’s Future
As the airline looks beyond 2025, key strategic decisions loom. Hawaiian must determine how and when to replace the aging Boeing 717s that remain vital to inter-island travel while sustaining competitiveness in the broader transpacific market.
Simultaneously, the deepening relationship with Alaska Airlines—underscored by the transfer of the 787s—could redefine Hawaiian’s role within the U.S. aviation landscape. The airline’s mix of tourism-oriented passenger service and dedicated Amazon cargo flying sets it apart from rivals but also presents new operational challenges.
With a fleet of 75 aircraft finely tuned to its geographic and commercial needs, Hawaiian Airlines stands at a crossroads. Its next round of decisions will determine whether it remains a niche specialist or evolves into a broader player shaped by its expanding ties to Alaska Airlines.
