The Future of Companion Discounts: What Do You Expect from the Alaska and Hawaiian Merger

As Alaska Airlines moves forward with its integration of Hawaiian Airlines post-merger, frequent flyers, and Hawaii travel insiders are left wondering about one of the most cherished perks in island-bound travel loyalty: the discounted companion ticket for cardholders.

For millions of Hawaii travelers, affordable options like these for families and couples are invaluable. Many loyal flyers ask, “Will Alaska’s and Hawaiian’s companion pass survive, merge, or expand?”

Here’s what we know so far, what remains unclear, and why these changes matter to travelers looking to maximize every discount in their Hawaii travel plans.

The value of Hawaii’s companion fares today.

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines each offer a companion pass yearly associated with their branded, paid credit cards. Each comes with different conditions and limitations that impact flexibility and value.

The “Alaska Companion Fare Offer”, is available to Alaska Airlines Visa cardholders. It allows travelers to book a companion ticket at a discount for flights within Alaska’s network, though it’s limited to coach travel on Alaska-operated flights only.

While travelers appreciate the annual issuance, the fare excludes award travel, certain cabin upgrades, and partner airline flights. While it’s useful for Alaska flights, it doesn’t provide universal flexibility, especially for those looking to combine routes or access partner airline networks.

On the other hand, the “Hawaiian Companion Discount Code”, has a more specific application. It’s limited to roundtrip coach flights between North America and Hawaii and excludes inter-island and international flights, first-class seating, and multi-city itineraries. After an initial card bonus of 50% off a coach roundtrip, the offer is for a yearly expiring $100 companion fare discount. These restrictions may suit travelers seeking straightforward roundtrips to Hawaii but with limited flexibility for more complex travel needs.

The Alaska companion offer is generally deemed to be of greater value. But understanding the rules and differences is key for travelers trying to maximize savings on Hawaii trips. Each program offers distinct advantages, but it also has unique limitations that make it suitable for different types of itineraries and travel preferences.

Will companion fares be cross-compatible?

While we expect the two credit card programs to be consolidated, it is not clear exactly when that will occur. So we await further word on that as well as what will become of these card-specific loyalty benefits.

While both airlines have assured customers that loyalty programs will integrate without devaluation by 2025, there’s less clarity on whether Alaska’s companion fare might be used on Hawaiian routes and vice versa. The uncertainty frustrates readers like Jim E., who commented, “I love Alaska’s annual fare but would love to use it on Hawaiian flights, especially when Alaska’s flights are full or more expensive.”

The absence of concrete answers reflects a broader trend in the industry, where loyalty program changes often leave travelers in limbo regarding perks. The Alaska-Hawaiian merger could, in theory, result in a unified companion discount.

Still, no official announcement has been made on whether existing discounts will be cross-functional or kept separate by airline until they expire. Speculation suggests Alaska may lean toward maintaining its current model, perhaps extending it across Hawaiian routes. However, that’s a guess, leaving frequent flyers to watch and wait.

Reader Donna R. shared a contrasting view, commenting, “I hope they don’t merge these offers. Hawaiian’s discount, though limited, better suits our needs for shorter, last-minute trips between islands.”

Travelers weigh in: companion fare concerns.

The potential changes to companion fares have sparked a lively discussion among our readers, reflecting just how valuable these discounts are for frequent travelers to Hawaii. For many, Alaska’s and Hawaiian’s companion fares have made family trips and getaways far more affordable, so whether these perks will change or disappear is causing a mix of concern and curiosity.

One reader, Harold P., said, “Do you think Hawaiian Airlines will accept Alaska’s companion fare?” This question touches on uncertainties remaining in the acquisition—whether the two programs will allow reciprocal use of companion fares.

Some travelers have shared their loyalty to Alaska’s companion fare. “I’ve had only one bad experience with Alaska’s card over 11 years… I love the companion fare,” says Stef, who appreciates this perk’s savings to their annual trips.

Others, like Patrick, feel strongly about keeping this benefit intact: “Better not touch the Companion Pass, or they will become like any other airline to me.” Comments like this show the weight these perks carry for travelers who rely on them to help keep Hawaii visits within their budget.

Frequent travelers using companion passes have also chimed in. AK shared that “My wife and I have flown to Hawaii 7 times with one of us free because of my companion pass,” expressing how important this perk is for those making regular trips. But logistical challenges have posed barriers for some, like Zman, who let their Alaska companion fare expire due to the lack of direct flights from Oakland.

These perspectives highlight the importance of companion fares to Hawaii travelers, who are now watching closely to see how Alaska and Hawaiian handle this perk in the upcoming integration. Whether kept separate, combined, or modified, the fate of these discounts will be one key in shaping future loyalty in the newly formed joint airline.

What’s at stake for Hawaii travelers?

The potential change in companion fares is more than just a loyalty program shift; it has practical implications for families, couples, and frequent travelers to Hawaii. Companion discounts represent significant savings, particularly on high-demand routes between the mainland and Hawaii flights. As airfare to Hawaii has risen recently, many travelers rely on these perks to make regular visits feasible.

Tammy S., a long-time Hawaii visitor, commented, “Alaska’s fare lets my husband and I visit Hawaii every year without breaking the bank.” Similarly, Vince shared, “For us, the Hawaiian Airlines companion fare is a life-saver for taking our kids to see their grandparents on the islands. It would be a big loss if that disappeared.”

For those who depend on these discounts, losing them—or having them restricted in some ways—could mean cutting down on trips or reconsidering travel budgets. Many families and retirees use these fares to reduce costs. Without a clear picture of what the merger will mean for companion fares, travelers are left weighing the risks of banking on a perk that may be gone in a few months.

The road ahead: waiting for more answers.

The Alaska-Hawaiian merger promises some exciting possibilities ahead, but as of now, travelers remain in the dark about certain loyalty benefits. For those holding companion fares, patience is needed.

Alaska and Hawaiian have committed to preserving brand identities, which could mean companion fares will continue in some form. Yet, without a clear policy update, readers like Bill are left uncertain. “I just booked a trip to Maui using Alaska miles. If the programs merge, I hope I can still switch to Hawaiian flights if there’s space,” he shared, echoing the concerns of many travelers who rely on flexibility.

For now, the best advice is to stay tuned and take advantage of available companion fares before any changes are announced that could bring changes for Hawaii-bound travelers. As the two airlines navigate complex integration steps, loyal travelers can only hope that these and other valuable perks will remain accessible and versatile going forward.

BOH reader engagement: What is your take on companion discounts?

What’s your experience with companion fares on Alaska or Hawaiian? Would a combined discount across both airlines make your Hawaii trips easier, or do you prefer the way these work currently? Share your thoughts in the comments—your feedback helps shape our coverage and keeps the conversation going on changes affecting Hawaii travelers.