Many cheap flights to Hawaii are now in the class of service generally referred to as basic economy. These new fares were the innovation of Delta Airlines, which launched basic economy over five years ago. Now, every airline flying to Hawaii has their version of basic economy, with the exception of Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
So just what does basic economy to Hawaii entail?
See product offerings of each airline’s below followed by our pick for winner. In addition to the specifics, do check if you are trying to accrue frequent flyer points, as how that works on a basic economy ticket varies.
Alaska was late to this party with its saver fare announced in 2018 for flights commencing in January 2019. With Alaska’s basic economy you still get a free carry-on. Seats are automatically assigned at check in (this aspect may change when it is unveiled), and will most likely be in the back of the plane. You will also be boarding last. Tickets are non-changeable and non-cancellable after the first 24-hours. Uniquely, fee based upgrades are permitted. Service on-board is otherwise identical to regular economy.
American’s basic economy does not provide seat selection. Those are assigned at check-in (24-hours prior to flight). If you wish to pay extra, however, you may be able to snag a seat assignment up to 48 hours prior to flight. Free carry-on is permitted, although since you’ll be boarding last, finding a space could be a challenge. No upgrades or changes, or cancellation after 24-hours. Service on-board is otherwise identical to regular economy.
Delta basic economy provides seat assignment selection at check-in. There are no changes, cancellations or upgrades permitted. Free carry-on and personal item are included. Service on-board is otherwise identical to regular economy.
This is coming to Hawaii’s bellwether in 2019. Read about Hawaiian Airlines basic economy and what we know so far.
Southwest has never had a basic economy offering and does not appear likely to.
Their basic economy includes one small personal item on-board (no regular carry-on). It is possible to change a ticket for a fee, and seat selection is also possible for a fee.
Seat assignment is provided at 24-hours prior to flight for free, or up to 48-hours in advance for a fee of $10 to Hawaii. Service on-board is otherwise identical to regular economy. You will board last, and use of overhead storage is available for an additional $25 fee. Otherwise, only under seat storage is permitted. Premier members are entitled to a standard carry-on even on basic economy fares. There are no changes, cancellations or upgrades permitted.
Basic economy offers standard carry-on plus personal item. Seats are automatically assigned at check-in. There are no changes, cancellations or upgrades permitted. Service on-board is otherwise identical to regular economy.
Which basic economy is best? The winner is Alaska Airlines.
Why is Alaska’s new Saver Fare best among basic economy offerings? Overall, the limitations seem less onerous than the other airlines. For one, a full size carry-on bag plus personal item are included. If you change your mind about basic economy after purchase, upgrades will be available for a fee to regular/premium economy. Limitations of this fare class mean that family members may not get to travel together, making this a good bet when traveling or wishing to sit alone.
Jim M. says
We fly to Maui every year on Hawaiian. The past couple of years we flew on A330’s which were new and wonderful. This past year they had brand new A-321’s. What a joke. The most uncomfortable plane we’ve ever been on. Can you please list the style of planes most airlines are using? Mahalo. Love your newsletter.
Jim M. Modesto Ca.
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Jim.
Thank you. Most flights are either on or moving to either 321 or 737. Other than main city pairs which have larger Airbus and Boeing. Perhaps we’ll do a post on that – thanks for the suggestion.
Aloha.
Amanda E says
I agree with this article about Alaska Airlines. They have ALWAYS been our go to when flying Hawaii. Cant be at the two FREE Hawaiian drinks (no matter what class) and a free Hawaiian cookie!! The service is impeccable PLUS cost is super affordable.