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Streamlined Travel: Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines Join Forces

In a move set to redefine efficiency in air travel, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are co-locating their airport facilities across several key locations, enhancing connectivity and convenience for travelers. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at integrating operations and improving the overall guest experience in an increasingly competitive airline industry.

A Strategic Partnership

The partnership centers around a network-wide initiative that was officially announced in April 2025, with both airlines relocating their operational spaces at major airports including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). This unprecedented collaboration means that ticket counters, gates, and baggage claim areas will be positioned adjacent to each other, allowing passengers of both airlines to enjoy a more streamlined travel process.

Celley Buchanan, the Vice President of Operations and Customer Service at Alaska Airlines, emphasizes the significance of this alignment: "We are committed to enhancing guest convenience to set the stage for future collaborative efforts that will benefit all our guests." This sentiment illustrates a larger vision that not only sees an immediate benefit but also paves the way for future joint initiatives.

Recent Developments: New Fields of Operation

As part of the transformation, Hawaiian Airlines has moved its check-in operations to Terminal 6 at LAX. This new alignment will enable quicker and simpler access between gates, counters, and baggage claims, making it more convenient for travelers. On the same day, Hawaiian Airlines has also commenced operations at Terminal 8 at JFK, transitioning from Terminal 4. This location is particularly strategic, serving as a hub for the American Airlines, which is a member of the same oneworld alliance to which Alaska Airlines belongs.

By co-locating at these crucial terminals, both airlines aim to increase connectivity not just with each other but also with their alliance partners, enhancing travel options for passengers. Shane Jones, senior vice president at Alaska Airlines, pointed out that the move to Terminal 8 would enable both airlines to collaborate more effectively: "The new long-term lease at Terminal 8 strengthens our commitment to enhancing the guest experience, improving employee spaces and driving better economic outcomes for our JFK operation."

Enhanced Amenities for First Class Travelers

The benefits of this collaboration extend beyond mere logistics. First Class passengers on both Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines will gain access to the Admirals Club lounge located at JFK's Terminal 8. For those traveling in First Class with Hawaiian Airlines, exclusive access to American's Greenwich Flagship Lounge will also be available. These offerings significantly enhance the premium travel experience, reflecting the airlines' commitment to prioritizing customer comfort and satisfaction.

Future Steps and Wider Implementation

The co-location initiative, which embarked on its journey last year, began at San Francisco International Airport and expanded to other key markets such as Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. As part of this rollout, both airlines plan to establish co-located spaces in additional locations including Sacramento, Salt Lake City, and Las Vegas, aiming for completion within the year.

This growing network is more than simply a logistical arrangement; it illustrates the airlines' commitment to a unified vision for travel that emphasizes connectivity, comfort, and convenience for all passengers. As these changes take effect, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are gearing up to offer an even more seamless travel experience, signaling a positive shift for air travel operators in the post-pandemic era.

About Alaska Air Group

Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air are part of Alaska Air Group, which operates with hubs across Seattle, Honolulu, Portland, and several other locations. The group aims to provide superior service while facilitating travel to over 140 destinations across multiple continents. With Hawaiian Airlines set to join the oneworld alliance in 2026, the future is looking bright for travelers seeking improved air travel experiences across the Pacific and beyond.