The landscape of Hawaii's travel industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the impending merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. A key aspect of this change involves the HawaiianMiles program. While the Hawaiian Airlines credit cards will remain active, the merger will see substantial alterations to the redemption of miles. This shift is particularly relevant for local entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals dependent on air travel and loyalty programs.
One of the primary concerns for frequent flyers is the future of their accumulated miles. According to Beat of Hawaii's report, the specifics of how HawaiianMiles will integrate into Alaska's Mileage Plan are still being finalized. However, the existing credit card holders do not need to worry about their accounts being immediately canceled. Business Traveler USA advises flyers on how to maximize their miles before the changes occur. The merger’s impact could extend beyond loyalty programs, affecting the competitive dynamics of the interisland and trans-Pacific air travel markets.
The merging of the two airline companies has a broader scope. The acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines by Alaska Airlines, as noted by the Pacific Business Journals, represents a nearly $2 billion deal. The success of the merger will have wide-ranging implications for Hawaii's economy. Local businesses that rely on air travel for shipping, tourism, and employee mobility should monitor developments closely.
The shift also presents potential opportunities. Hawaiian Airlines has already started enabling customers to unlock shared loyalty benefits, which includes status match and access to reciprocal earn. By understanding the evolving terms of the new combined loyalty program and taking advantage of the reciprocal arrangements, savvy travelers and business owners can potentially derive more value from their miles and credit card benefits.
In conclusion, while the HawaiianMiles program is phasing out, the continued validity of the airline's credit cards offers ongoing benefits. Entrepreneurs and investors must stay informed about the evolving details of the airline merger to make the most of the benefits.
