(Images credit to Hawaiian Airlines)
Hawaiian Airlines Welcomes Its First Boeing 787 Dreamliner
After much delayed anticipation, Hawaiian Airlines has accepted delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The aircraft N781HA departed from Boeing’s Charleston plant and touched down at Daniel K, Inouye International Airport (HNL) a little after 10:00pm HST on February 14.
This marks a significant milestone for the airline and a new product. The aircraft combines enhanced technology, improved fuel efficiency, and an elevated passenger experience compared to Hawaiian Airlines existing fleet.
A Long-Awaited Arrival
Hawaiian Airlines placed its order for up to 20 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in 2018, with a firm order for 12 jets and options for an additional 8. Boeing’s 787 production line issues contributed to the much-delayed delivery of the first aircraft, registered as N781HA. Still the delivery marks a culmination of years of fleet and product planning.
Enhanced Efficiency and Capacity
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner boasts advanced technology, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions, making it an ideal addition to Hawaiian Airlines’ long-haul fleet. With a seating capacity of 300 passengers, including 34 Leihoku (Lei of Stars) Suites in a 1-2-1 business class, 79 premium economy seats, and 187 economy seats, the Dreamliner offers increased capacity and comfort for travelers. The economy seats were designed with Adient Aerospace. The seats will offer a 12” entertainment screen, USB charging points and hopefully some comfort with seat back and armrest contoured for more space.
Inaugural Routes and Future Plans
Hawaiian Airlines has outlined its initial test and proving routes for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. With flights commencing between Honolulu and key destinations such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. These routes are scheduled to begin in April and May 2024, offering passengers a glimpse of the Dreamliner’s capabilities and amenities.
Looking ahead, Hawaiian Airlines plans to utilize the Dreamliner for long-haul international flights, with potential routes to Asia and the South Pacific. While specific details are yet to be announced, the airline’s expansion into international markets signals exciting opportunities for travelers seeking new destinations and experiences. Deliveries of the aircraft will be ongoing through 2027. The announced merger with Alaska Airlines offers additional route possibilities from Seattle (SEA) and via the Oneworld alliance.
Hawaiian Airlines 787
Leihoku Business Class Suites
One of the most anticipated features of Hawaiian Airlines’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner is the introduction of Leihoku Suites, (Leihoku is Hawaiian for lei/wreath of stars), in the business class cabin. Configured in a 1-2-1 layout with direct aisle access and privacy doors. The suites redefine luxury and comfort in the skies for Hawaiian Airlines product offering. Featuring 18” entertainment screens, wireless cellphone charging and personalized amenities, Leihoku Suites are expected to offer an elevated inflight experience for travelers to Hawaii.
A Bright Future Ahead*
As Hawaiian Airlines welcomes its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner it embarks on a new chapter. These state-of-the-art aircraft, premium services, and a commitment to passenger satisfaction give Hawaiian Airlines a chance to shake up the highly competitive Hawaii tourist travel market. The announced acquisition by Alaska Airlines only adds to the potential for a further shake up of the market.
Deliveries of the 787 will be staged between now and 2027 with the second aircraft expected over the next several weeks. So, it will be a while before the aircraft is a mainstay in the fleet.
Question: Would you go out of your way to fly on one of Hawaiian Airlines new 787’s?
Sources:
Hawaiian Airlines
Ben Schlappig/One Mile at a Time
Simple Flying
Photos:
Credit Hawaiian Airlines