Already a subscriber? Make sure to log into your account before viewing this content. You can access your account by hitting the “login” button on the top right corner. Still unable to see the content after signing in? Make sure your card on file is up-to-date.
Alaska Airlines has announced a major acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, with a deal valued at approximately $1.9 billion, signaling a significant expansion along the West Coast.

The purchase, which sets Hawaiian Airlines’ value at $18 per share, also involves Alaska Airlines inheriting $900 million of Hawaiian Airlines’ debt.
The transaction, which is anticipated to be finalized within the next 12 to 18 months, will result in the company being headquartered in Seattle under the leadership of Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci. The acquisition will see the two airlines operating under a single platform while preserving their distinct brand identities. The merger will now include a fleet of 365 airplanes, serving a total of 138 destinations.

Peter Ingram, CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, expressed optimism about the merger in the news release, stating, “With the additional scale and resources that this transaction with Alaska Airlines brings, we will be able to accelerate investments in our guest experience and technology, while maintaining the Hawaiian Airlines brand.”

The merger is expected to significantly benefit Alaska Airlines, enabling it to triple the number of nonstop or one-stop flights from the Hawaiian islands to various destinations across North America. Alaska Airlines anticipates a boost in earnings within two years post-acquisition, with projected “run-rate synergies” of at least $235 million.
Minicucci emphasized Alaska Airlines’ commitment to the Hawaiian community and the promise of maintaining extensive service to the Neighbor Islands, ensuring continuity for Hawaiian Airlines’ travelers.