Hawaiian Airlines’ Dreamliner business class offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience across the Pacific, particularly for those who can take advantage of its limited but expanding routes. The airline blends Hawaiian hospitality with modern long-haul amenities, featuring private suites, flavorful menus, and relatively accessible award availability. However, the experience isn’t without drawbacks: the drinks selection feels standard rather than premium, and the lack of onboard Wi-Fi remains a notable omission.
The Evolution of Hawaiian’s Long-Haul Service
Hawaiian Airlines has only recently entered the long-haul market with its Dreamliner fleet, currently consisting of five aircraft. The airline is strategically expanding routes in partnership with Alaska Airlines, which is in the process of acquiring Hawaiian. New flights between Seattle and Tokyo/Seoul have already launched, with services to London and Rome scheduled for May. This expansion is a deliberate move to compete more effectively in transpacific and transatlantic travel.
Comfort and Cabin Design
The business-class cabin on the Dreamliner is designed around the “leihoku” (garland of stars) concept, featuring a palette inspired by Hawaiian landscapes. The Adient Aerospace Ascent suites offer privacy doors, colorful finishes, and adjustable seats that recline into lie-flat positions.
The cabin layout is 1-2-1, with single seats along the sides and pairs in the center. The seats are 21 inches wide and include moveable armrests for added space. Universal power plugs and wireless charging pads are available, though USB-C ports are notably absent. The seats recline to 77 inches in lie-flat mode.
The cabin features soft bedding from Noho Home, including seat covers, pillows, and lightweight duvets. Flight attendants offer amenity kits with eye masks, socks, and Loli’i skincare products. There are only two lavatories for 34 passengers, which can lead to congestion during peak times.
Dining and Beverage Service
Hawaiian Airlines’ dining service is a highlight, with menus that can be preordered (though availability isn’t always guaranteed). The airline offers Japanese, vegetarian, and Hawaiian fusion options, with appetizers, main courses, and desserts served from a cart.
The Hawaiian fusion menu includes hot and sour soup, asparagus salad, and braised short rib with scallion risotto. The wine list includes Champagne, Prosecco, chardonnay, and pinot grigio. The beverage selection is adequate but lacks the premium offerings found on some other airlines.
Entertainment and Connectivity
The Dreamliner features 18-inch touchscreens with a wide range of movies, TV shows, and music. Wired remotes are also available. However, onboard Wi-Fi is currently unavailable, which is a significant drawback for travelers who rely on connectivity during flights.
Booking and Cost
Booking Hawaiian Airlines business class can be done through cash or points redemption. One-way flights from Tokyo to Seattle cost around $3,320, but award availability on Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards points can bring the cost down to 95,000 points plus $54 in taxes and fees. Alaska Airlines is a 1:1 transfer partner of Bilt, and Marriott Bonvoy points can be transferred at a 3:1 ratio.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Airlines’ Dreamliner business class is a strong offering, particularly for those flying on its limited but growing long-haul routes. The comfortable suites, flavorful dining, and Hawaiian-inspired ambiance make for a pleasant experience. However, the absence of onboard Wi-Fi and the standard drinks selection prevent it from reaching top-tier status. Overall, it’s a solid choice for travelers seeking a refined journey across the Pacific.
