Travelers can take advantage of an unusually rare airfare sale today, with flights connecting Hawaii’s islands starting at just $49 each way. This deal offers significant savings for residents and visitors alike, making it easier to explore the islands without breaking the bank. For residents who can take advantage of Alaska-Hawaiian’s quarterly resident fare offer, that brings the price back down to $39 each way.
The promotion, valid for midweek travel, begins in late January and extends through mid-May 2025 on both Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines. Here’s how to make the most of this limited-time offer.
What you need to know.
The $49 fare applies to select interisland routes by Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines. These deals are specifically for travel on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, at least now, with prices for other days starting from $20 to $40 higher round trip.
Travelers should note that these fares exclude peak travel periods, such as spring break or holidays, where prices are likely higher.
How Hawaiian and Southwest compare.
Before you book, here are several things to consider:
Hawaiian Airlines.
Hawaiian Airlines recently introduced the Huakaʻi Program, which offers residents a 20% discount once per quarter on select routes. Southwest Airlines is not currently matching this exclusive benefit. Learn more about the Huakaʻi Program.
While Hawaiian doesn’t include free checked bags in its standard fares other than for resident members of their program, HawaiianMiles members can benefit from reduced baggage fees inter-island, making it an attractive choice for frequent travelers. Hawaiian also has a dedicated interisland fleet.
Southwest Airlines.
While not offering a resident discount program, Southwest provides consistent value via its two free checked bags for all passengers, a significant advantage for budget-conscious travelers. At $49, Southwest’s sale price thus easily matches the value of Hawaiian’s low fares, offering a differing but competitive option for midweek travel.
How to secure $49 fares.
Low fares tend to sell out quickly, so booking as soon as possible is essential to snag the $49 rate. BOH editors are already doing that today.
Traveling midweek is key to success. Tuesday and Wednesday flights consistently offer the lowest prices in this promotion, making flexibility with travel dates a major advantage.
Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines offer similar pricing, but their schedules and baggage policies vary. Hawaiian includes free seat assignments, while Southwest does not; however, Southwest allows two free checked bags, providing a unique value for those traveling with more luggage.
Why now is a great time to explore.
After a temporary lull, this sale continues the competition between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines. That battle helped to keep prices to and between the islands affordable. This is a perfect opportunity for residents to visit family, head for appointments, or take any quick getaway. Visitors can use this deal to experience multiple islands during their Hawaii vacation.
Flights outside the $49 window still represent ongoing good value, with round-trip fares averaging $20 to $40 more, depending on the day of travel.
Are you taking advantage of this Hawaii deal?
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Nope. Still sticking with Hawaiian for inter-island travel. Aloha and POG with every flight, and you can’t beat them for frequency.