Flying to Hawaii was once an enchanting experience that many of you too may still recall. It was the prelude to a Hawaii vacation itself. Airlines like Pan Am and United once transformed what could have been routine journeys into unforgettable experiences. From piano bars on Boeing 747s to champagne service and warm Hawaiian hospitality, stepping onto a plane, whether in economy or first class, felt like stepping into a world of aloha.
But today, much of that air travel magic has faded. Incredibly cramped seats, relentless fees, and cost-cutting measures have almost completely redefined what was once such a luxurious experience. Yet, all is not lost. With a little creativity and planning, reclaiming some of that lost magic and making your journey part of the adventure is still possible.
The golden age of Hawaii flights.
The 1970s and ’80s unquestionably marked the golden era in air travel to Hawaii, and it’s a time that many of you still remember. Flights were designed to embody the spirit of the islands, offering luxury and warmth rarely seen today. From spacious cabins to personalized service, airlines made the journey feel as special as the destination.
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RickM reminisced about a 1972 flight when a stranger invited him to first class after noticing his military uniform. “It was a marvel to see how beautiful this cabin was. I’ll never forget that trip,” he shared. These moments of genuine connection and hospitality defined Hawaii flights of the past.
For MJ, flying in United’s upper-deck cabin on a 747 during the 1980s was an unforgettable experience. “They always had Hawaiian cocktails waiting for us and greeted us by name,” he recalled. Even economy class offered thoughtful touches like orchids on dinner plates and spacious seating that made long-haul flights feel less grueling.
Pan Am’s reputation as the pinnacle of luxury is still fondly remembered. Michele commented, “Pan Am was the premier carrier to Hawaii when civility and class was reflected by the travelers. The airline is missed today, but so are the respectful and well-mannered passengers.”
What happened to Hawaii flight magic?
The decline of luxury in Hawaii flights coincided with the rise of extreme cost-cutting measures and increased competition among airlines. Features that were once considered standard—complimentary meals, reasonable legroom, and personalized service—were replaced by a la carte pricing, tighter quarters, and little to no service elements.
Jay expressed frustration with the changes, saying, “Southwest will now lose customers with all their new changes, especially less legroom which was a great selling point. Now they are just like the other greedy airlines.”
Even premium cabins have shifted away from indulgence. Rob summed it up by noting, “First class today is barely what economy was back then.” And while lie-flat seats offer a semblance of luxury on some routes, Patrick pointed out that “there are so many more ‘non-flat planes than flat ones.’”
Yet despite these challenges, modern travelers can still find ways to elevate their flight experience.
Reclaiming Hawaii flight magic today.
While the days of champagne toasts in coach may be largely over, there are real and creative ways to bring some of that lost luxury back to your Hawaii flights.
Even upgrading to extra legroom or premium economy can make a significant difference in comfort. L.A., who recently flew Hawaiian Air, shared, “I bought my husband the first-class lie-flat seats due to his health issues. $1,100 RT was so worth it. The rest of us suffered in economy.”
Premium cabins on select flights often feature enhanced legroom, better meals, and attentive service that echo the charm of yesteryear. Check out our review of United Airlines Premium Economy to see if this option fits your needs.
If first-class or premium upgrades are out of reach, strategies that BOH editors use, like purchasing an extra economy seat, can provide extra space and comfort. As Patrick explained, “I did this once on an AA flight from LIH to PHX. Got extra legroom for my wife and I and bought the middle seat. It was very nice to have the extra space.”
Bringing gourmet snacks or meals can also elevate your in-flight experience. Maleko suggested, “We sit premium and, like you, cater our meals on board. Why eat something you don’t care for?”
Tailoring the experience to your tastes can make even economy feel more special. For more tips, check out our guide to seat selection, which includes advice on maximizing comfort.
Strategic seat selection is another key. As Kevin M. shared, “When someone books the middle seat, we decide their fate by either giving them the window or aisle depending on the flight.” Tools like seat maps and early check-ins help secure the best spots, making your trip to Hawaii more enjoyable.
A reflection on the journey to Hawaii.
While today’s Hawaii flights no longer mirror the glamour of the past, and never will, the spirit of those golden days can live on in the way you plan your journey. Whether it’s splurging on premium seats, bringing your own touch of aloha with meals, or finding creative ways to maximize comfort, your flight doesn’t have to be just a miserable way to start a Hawaii vacation.
As RickM fondly remembered, “It was a marvel to see how beautiful this cabin was. I’ll never forget that trip.” Moments like these remind us that while the travel industry has changed, the essence of Hawaii remains timeless.
Reclaiming the lost magic of Hawaii flights is about more than nostalgia. It’s about reimagining your journey, taking charge, and turning the flight itself into an experience to remember.
What’s your trick to make the flight easier?
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I’ve never had any “experience” flying to Hawaii. I will say the first time we flew non-stop from ATL-HNL was a great flight. Have taken it since. But nothing special. And I Love when you Leave Hawaii. I feel like cows being herded onto a truck! Like they can’t load you fast enough! And then the flight attendants don’t want you to bother them so they can just sit!! It’s really adds to the HDD I have! (Hawaii Departure Depression)
Must’ve been the early 80’s offering more flight comfort. We flew United to Kauai for our honeymoon in ’88 and sat in uncomfortable seats, 5 across the center. Not much different than coach today. Recently, however, my brother-in-law came into a lot of money and treated us to 1st class on Hawaiian. Those lie-flat seats were like heaven, but there’s no guarantee you’ll get a plane with those and it’s difficult to tell when you book them. I searched our seat map info before flying and still couldn’t convince my family that we’d be that comfortable. As we were seated, I finally got to say “I told you so”! Now that Alaskaair and Hawaiian are one, we may be able to look forward to better USA airline experiences. We’ve flown Alaska mostly and found it to be better than most US airlines. We were pleasantly surprised at Condor Air on a transatlantic flight and again on Air Lingus. All US airlines have a lot to do to make flying as comfortable.
Flew PanAm to HNL on my first trip to Hawaii in 1965, and several times thereafter. Then gradually moved to United and later Continental in the 80s and 90s. Back then both Continental and United first class were tops, even regular coach was a pleasant experience. That day is long gone with all the airlines. You hardly can get a Mai Tai on a first class narrow body, unless you’re on Hawaiian. We now search for premium cabin bargains months ahead. If we are stuck in coach then we adjust with BOH-type suggestions regarding carry on snacks and extra space seating. Those “back in the day” flights across the Pacific were really something to cherish and remember.
We flew on Hawaiian Airlines to Oahu just s few days ago. In fact, we 3 days into our 10 day vacation. Worst flight ever. We paid for the extra legroom when we bought our tickets. Then the aircraft changed and they separated us. My husband was 4 rows in front of me. He got the extra legroom and I got main cabin basic. The service was sub par at best. We were offered nice breakfast sandwich, but the rest of the flight had virtually nothing after that. Almost 5 hours and the flight attendants came through 3 times offering water. I just wonder how much the remaining service will disappear after the Alaska/Hawaiian merger.
Until recently, Hawaiians had been living in a magical world reminiscent of a bygone era. Alaska, known for its pragmatic and cost-cutting approach, is set to strip away the remnants of the magic still left in Hawaiian. I had been hoping for the merger to fail, but that was not to be.
I remember flying as a teenager getting all dressed up. Later as a stewardess serving meals using white linens and individually made cocktails. I won’t forget “cherry goes in a Manhattan.”
Our first few trips to Maui (80’s/90’s) were paid for using frequent flier miles in business class. It seems like these miles were worth more then than now. We bought everything on credit cards that generated miles. Paid off the balance every month so no interest expense. Then internet based travel sites became popular and unbelievable discounts were available. This was primarily driven by the airlines’ making available “bulk” tickets and low cost airlines that mimicked SWA. Then cash back credit cards appeared. A quick analysis indicated we were better off taking the cash and buying the discounted tickets. With the discounts came less service and smaller seats. Customers that are paying out of pocket now buy the cheapest tickets they can find no matter where they go. Most companies have been able to slash business travel reducing FF miles accumulation by road warriors. Thats how we got to where we are. Period.
Nothing about Hawaii is the same so why should the airlines be? They are just following suit. Hawaii taught this tactic and the airlines have followed. It’s all called greed.
With the apparent shift towards attracting only well heeled visitors (you know – the “Right Kind” – sarc off), I wonder if any of the airlines would consider a super premium first class experience that replicates the “good old days” of flying. With an onboard club bar, 2x2x2 seating with the wide comfy old Barca lounger style seating that I miss, catered meals hand served served the old way, high crew to passenger ratios, all the amenities provided, spacious lavatories, privacy curtains, etc.
All at a commensurate price of course. Somewhere between first class and private jet… I’d bet that there’s actually a market for it too. Perhaps the 777X would be a candidate?
Best Regards
Yes, my first flight to Hawaii was in 1994 in First Class on a TWA 747 from St Louis. The food was excellent and the seat was very comfortable. Move on 30 years and from DFW American (which bought TWA) now offers Business class to Honolulu on a 787 800, (my last First was on a 777-300 just before than pandemic). Food is not up to much so I self cater like you. First Class on 777-300 is flat bed which is better than the 1994 seats but the AA 787-800 has the dreaded rocking flat beds which are more cramped and joined on pairs that move when the person in front or behind moves. I avoid the narrow bodies from the West Coast. For me the thing I mourn the most is the loss of the 747. Still booking the right flights, the right seats and bringing my own food and entertainment can soften the blow. Airlines have been forced to race to the bottom and nickel and dime by the market. From the mainland cheapness not value sells tickets. JAL ANA and Korean Air still have a more luxurious offering.
When we book economy we always bring noise cancelling headphones, an Airfly, a foot sling, a Bev Ledge (for drinks on the window sill or a place to put your phone or eyeglasses)a Wander neck pillow and a blow up pillow and blanket we bought long ago from Hawaiian airlines. We also book the two seats behind the restroom so no worries about that pesky middle seat. We bring our own snacks and have a Mai Tai before take off and buy one during the drink service when possible. We also use an airtag for our luggage, or fly carry on for less worry. All our restaurant reservations are made in advance, we book a car through a friend have stored our beach chairs and umbrellas with A Hui Hou for delivery when we arrive. We also book the earliest flight in the morning, so we arrive early and can shop for our before arriving at our resort. Makes for a much better, stress free flight and vacation.
Luxury went away when “casual Friday” became popular. Now casual is seven days a week. Look how people are dressed to go to a wedding. So sad, people don’t know what they have missed.
I remember when United first started its Mileage Plus program in the 80s. Back then, 10,000 miles would get you a reserved upgrade to First Class at the time of booking. After our first round trip to New York (9,900+ miles RT), we had enough miles from the flight plus credit card to fly our family (me, wife and two small kids) round trip first class for every trip back east – until of course they started the never-ended degradation of the value of an earned mile. And back then the meal was prime rib, cut to order plus a giant ice cream sundae with all the possible toppings in the world. Of course the seats were just recliners, and not lie-flat, but those weren’t even available on the highest end airlines at that time. All that being said, I’ll take the lie-flats on wide-bodies and give up the prime rib. 🙂