Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare Takes Flight with Hawaiian Airlines: Your Guide to $99 Flights to Paradise
In a move that has travel enthusiasts buzzing, Alaska Airlines has expanded its renowned Companion Fare benefit to include Hawaiian Airlines flights within North America. This game-changing development opens up a world of possibilities for affordable travel to the Hawaiian Islands and beyond. Let's dive into the details of this exciting enhancement and explore how it can transform your travel plans.
Understanding the Alaska Airlines Companion Fare
Before we delve into the new Hawaiian Airlines integration, it's essential to grasp the fundamentals of Alaska's Famous Companion Fare. This coveted perk has been a cornerstone of Alaska Airlines' credit card offerings since the 1990s, consistently ranking as one of the most valuable benefits in the credit card landscape.
The Basics of the Companion Fare
The Companion Fare allows eligible Alaska Airlines credit cardholders to bring a travel companion on qualifying flights for just $99 (plus taxes and fees, which typically start at $23). This benefit can lead to substantial savings, especially on longer routes or during peak travel seasons when fares tend to be higher.
Eligibility and How to Earn
Two Bank of America-issued credit cards offer the Companion Fare benefit:
- Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card
- Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card
Both cards carry an annual fee of $95. To earn the Companion Fare, cardholders must spend $6,000 during their cardmember year. This spending requirement was introduced for new cardholders after January 18, 2023. However, it's worth noting that cardholders who opened their accounts before this date continue to receive the Companion Fare automatically each year without any spending requirement – a grandfathered benefit that adds significant value for long-time customers.
Current Welcome Offers
For those considering applying for the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card, the current welcome offer is particularly attractive. New cardholders can earn 50,000 bonus miles plus a Companion Fare certificate after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days. This combination of miles and the Companion Fare can jumpstart your travel plans right out of the gate.
The Hawaiian Airlines Integration: A New Horizon
Starting in July 2025, the scope of the Companion Fare expands dramatically with the inclusion of Hawaiian Airlines flights within North America. This integration is a direct result of Alaska Airlines' acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, creating a more comprehensive network focused on the West Coast and Pacific regions.
Eligible Routes and Flights
The expanded benefit applies to Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights within North America, including:
- Flights to and from Hawaii
- Hawaiian Airlines routes within the continental United States
- Both one-way and round-trip travel options
It's important to note that the Companion Fare is valid only on main cabin fares and does not apply to first-class tickets. However, this still opens up a wealth of options for travelers looking to explore the Hawaiian Islands or connect between West Coast destinations.
Popular Routes Now Available
With this expansion, travelers can now use their Companion Fare on highly sought-after routes such as:
- Las Vegas to Honolulu
- Los Angeles to Maui
- San Francisco to Kona
- Seattle to Honolulu
- Phoenix to Kahului
These routes represent just a fraction of the possibilities now available to Companion Fare holders. The integration effectively doubles your options for reaching Hawaii, offering more flexibility in terms of departure cities, flight times, and even aircraft types.
Navigating the New System: Tips and Potential Challenges
While the expansion of the Companion Fare to Hawaiian Airlines flights is undoubtedly exciting, the implementation hasn't been without its hiccups. Being aware of potential challenges can help you navigate the booking process more smoothly.
Technical Considerations
Early adopters have reported several technical issues when attempting to book Hawaiian Airlines flights with their Companion Fare:
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Mobile vs. Desktop Booking: The Alaska Airlines mobile app and mobile website may only display Alaska-operated flights when searching with a Companion Fare code. For the best results, use the desktop version of alaskaair.com when looking for Hawaiian Airlines options.
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Search Configuration: Some users have found success by adjusting their search parameters. Try removing the "Upgrade type" setting and disabling "Flexible dates" during the booking process to see more Hawaiian Airlines options.
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Checkout Glitches: There have been reports of the website encountering errors during the checkout process. If this happens, don't be discouraged – try completing your booking again, as many users have succeeded after multiple attempts.
Route Limitations and Gradual Rollout
Not all Hawaiian Airlines routes are immediately available for Companion Fare bookings. Some travelers have noted that certain departure airports, particularly those not served by Alaska Airlines (such as Long Beach), may not work with the Companion Fare system. Additionally, the availability of routes appears to be rolling out gradually. If you don't see your preferred route initially, it's worth checking back periodically as more options become available.
Payment Method Changes
In conjunction with the Hawaiian Airlines integration, Alaska Airlines has implemented a significant change to the payment process for Companion Fare bookings. As of July 2025, travelers can no longer use wallet funds or gift cards to pay for these bookings. The entire purchase must now be charged to your Alaska Airlines Visa card. While this may seem restrictive, it actually reinforces the connection between the benefit and cardholders, potentially safeguarding the perk for the future.
Maximizing Value: Why This Expansion Matters
The inclusion of Hawaiian Airlines flights in the Companion Fare program significantly enhances its value proposition. Here's why this expansion is a game-changer for travelers:
Fleet and Route Advantages
Hawaiian Airlines operates a modern fleet, including the state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which offers lie-flat seats in premium class. This presents an opportunity for travelers to experience superior comfort, especially on longer routes. Additionally, Hawaiian Airlines serves destinations and routes that Alaska doesn't, providing more options and flexibility when planning your trips.
Upgrade Potential
One of the most exciting aspects of this expansion is that Companion Fare tickets remain eligible for complimentary upgrades if you have Alaska Airlines elite status. This means you could potentially experience Hawaiian's premium cabin offerings at a fraction of the usual cost, maximizing both savings and comfort.
Expanded Network Benefits
The Companion Fare expansion is just one piece of the broader integration between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines. As the two airlines combine their operations, travelers can expect a more comprehensive network covering the West Coast and Pacific regions. This integration promises to create a powerhouse in trans-Pacific travel, offering more choices and potentially better connectivity for passengers.
The Broader Context: Alaska-Hawaiian Integration
To fully appreciate the significance of the Companion Fare expansion, it's crucial to understand the broader context of the Alaska-Hawaiian integration. This merger is reshaping the loyalty landscape for both airlines, creating both opportunities and challenges for travelers.
The End of HawaiianMiles
One of the most significant changes is the discontinuation of the standalone HawaiianMiles program, scheduled for later in 2025. All existing HawaiianMiles will be converted to Alaska Mileage Plan miles at a 1:1 ratio. This transition presents both opportunities and potential concerns for loyal Hawaiian Airlines customers.
Account Linking and Status Matching
To ensure a smooth transition, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are encouraging travelers to link their accounts now at alaskaair.com/linkaccount. This proactive step is crucial for seamless status matching and mile transfers. Current Pualani Elite members can receive equivalent Alaska Mileage Plan status, but it's important to note that they must use their Alaska account number when flying Alaska to receive benefits.
Partnership Changes
The merger has also led to the termination of several HawaiianMiles partnerships as of June 30, 2025. This includes airline partners such as JetBlue, Japan Airlines, China Airlines, Korean Air, Virgin Atlantic, and Virgin Australia. Additionally, lifestyle partnerships with Foodland, Hele Gas, Boyd Rewards, and Maui Jim Sunglasses have ended.
Impact on Baggage Benefits
The HawaiianMiles baggage discount for inter-island flights will be discontinued. However, Hawaii residents can still access free bags through the Huaka'i program, which remains unchanged and exclusive to Hawaii residents.
Strategic Considerations for Different Traveler Profiles
The expansion of the Companion Fare and the broader Alaska-Hawaiian integration have different implications depending on your travel patterns and loyalty program affiliations. Let's explore the strategic considerations for various traveler profiles.
For Current Alaska Airlines Cardholders
If you already hold an Alaska Airlines credit card, this expansion immediately enhances the value of your Companion Fare benefit. You now have access to:
- Increased flight frequency to Hawaii
- More diverse departure times to fit your schedule
- The opportunity to experience Hawaiian's Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft
To maximize this benefit, consider planning your Hawaii trips well in advance to secure the best fares and availability. Also, keep an eye out for any limited-time promotions or route expansions that could further enhance your travel options.
For Hawaiian Airlines Loyalists
If you're a dedicated HawaiianMiles member, this transition period requires careful consideration:
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Consider applying for an Alaska Airlines credit card now to ensure you have access to the Companion Fare benefit as the programs merge.
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Link your HawaiianMiles and Alaska Mileage Plan accounts as soon as possible to facilitate seamless status matching and mile transfers.
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Take advantage of any remaining HawaiianMiles features, such as the ability to transfer miles between accounts for free (available with certain cards), as these may disappear when the program fully converts to Alaska Mileage Plan.
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Stay informed about the timeline for the full integration and any temporary promotions or bonuses offered during the transition period.
For Hawaii Residents
If you're a Hawaii resident, it's important to note that the Huaka'i by Hawaiian program remains unaffected by the merger. This program continues to offer valuable benefits, including:
- One free checked bag on inter-island flights
- Quarterly fare deals
- Regular discounts on Hawaiian's domestic and international network
As a Hawaii resident, you're in a unique position to potentially benefit from both the Huaka'i program and the expanded Companion Fare. Consider how you can strategically combine these benefits to maximize your travel opportunities both within Hawaii and to the mainland.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines
The integration of the Companion Fare benefit with Hawaiian Airlines flights is just the beginning of what Alaska Airlines describes as their "upcoming new, combined single loyalty program." As the merger progresses, we can expect to see more enhancements and shared benefits rolled out.
Some potential developments to watch for include:
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Further route expansions, potentially including more international destinations leveraging Hawaiian's existing network.
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Enhanced elite status benefits that combine the best features of both airlines' programs.
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Improved connectivity between West Coast hubs and Hawaiian destinations, offering more seamless travel experiences.
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Possible adjustments to award charts and redemption rates as the programs fully integrate.
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New co-branded credit card offerings that might combine elements from both airlines' previous cards.
As these changes unfold, it will be crucial for travelers to stay informed and adapt their strategies to make the most of the evolving program.
Maximizing Your Companion Fare: Tips and Strategies
To help you get the most value out of the expanded Companion Fare benefit, consider these tips and strategies:
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Plan Ahead: Book your trips well in advance, especially for popular routes and travel periods, to secure the best fares and availability.
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Be Flexible: Consider alternative departure cities or slightly different travel dates to find the best deals.
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Combine with Status: If you have Alaska Airlines elite status, remember that Companion Fare tickets are eligible for upgrades, potentially allowing you to experience premium cabins at a fraction of the cost.
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Maximize Route Options: Explore new routing possibilities that combine Alaska and Hawaiian flights to reach your destination, potentially opening up more convenient or cost-effective options.
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Stay Informed: Keep an eye on announcements from both Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines regarding new routes, promotions, or changes to the Companion Fare program.
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Consider Longer Trips: The Companion Fare can offer significant savings on longer, more expensive routes, so consider using it for those big Hawaii vacations rather than shorter hops.
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Pair with Welcome Bonuses: If you're new to the Alaska Airlines credit card, strategize on how to combine the welcome bonus miles with your Companion Fare for maximum value.
Important Terms and Conditions to Remember
While the expansion of the Companion Fare to Hawaiian Airlines flights offers exciting possibilities, it's crucial to keep the following terms and conditions in mind:
- The benefit is valid only on paid Saver or Main Cabin fares.
- It cannot be used for first-class tickets.
- Both the primary traveler and the companion must be booked on the same itinerary at the same time.
- Payment must be made with your Alaska Airlines credit card.
- The Companion Fare is valid for one year from the issue date.
Understanding these restrictions will help you plan your travel more effectively and avoid any disappointment or confusion during the booking process.
Conclusion: A New Era of Pacific Travel
The expansion of Alaska's Famous Companion Fare to include Hawaiian Airlines flights marks the beginning of a new era in Pacific travel. This enhancement not only adds tremendous value for existing Alaska Airlines credit cardholders but also creates compelling reasons for travelers to consider these cards as part of their broader travel strategy.
For those dreaming of Hawaiian vacations, weekend getaways to West Coast cities, or island-hopping adventures, the expanded Companion Fare opens up a world of possibilities at more affordable prices. The ability to bring a travel companion for just $99 (plus taxes and fees) on eligible flights can translate into substantial savings, especially on longer routes or during peak travel seasons.
As the integration between Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more benefits and opportunities emerge. This merger has the potential to create a powerhouse in trans-Pacific travel, offering enhanced connectivity, more route options, and a more comprehensive loyalty program for travelers.
Whether you're a seasoned Alaska Airlines loyalist, a dedicated Hawaiian Airlines fan, or someone new to both programs, now is the time to explore how these changes can benefit your travel plans. By staying informed, being strategic with your bookings, and leveraging the expanded Companion Fare benefit, you can unlock incredible value and embark on unforgettable journeys across the Pacific and beyond.
As we look to the future of travel in this region, one thing is clear: the skies have never been more open, and the possibilities for exploration have never been more exciting. So pack your bags, grab your favorite travel companion, and get ready to experience the best of what Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines have to offer – all at prices that might just make you say "Mahalo!"
FAQs about Alaska Airlines' Famous Companion Fare Now Available on Hawaiian Airlines
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When does the expanded Companion Fare benefit for Hawaiian Airlines flights take effect?
The expansion begins in July 2025, allowing eligible cardholders to use their Companion Fare on Hawaiian Airlines flights within North America. -
Can I use the Companion Fare for international flights on Hawaiian Airlines?
No, the Companion Fare is only valid for Hawaiian Airlines flights within North America, including flights to and from Hawaii. -
Do I need to have an Alaska Airlines credit card to use this benefit?
Yes, the Companion Fare is exclusively available to holders of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card or the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card. -
Can I use the Companion Fare for first-class tickets on Hawaiian Airlines?
No, the Companion Fare is only valid for Saver or Main Cabin fares, not for first-class tickets. -
How do I book a Hawaiian Airlines flight using my Companion Fare?
Book through the Alaska Airlines website (alaskaair.com) using your Companion Fare code. It's recommended to use the desktop version of the site for the best results. -
What happens to my HawaiianMiles when the programs merge?
HawaiianMiles will be converted to Alaska Mileage Plan miles at a 1:1 ratio when the HawaiianMiles program is discontinued later in 2025. -
Can I still use my Hawaiian Airlines credit card after the merger?
The Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard issued by Barclays continues to function, but some issues with miles posting have been reported. Both Hawaiian Airlines and Barclays are working to resolve these issues. -
Will the Companion Fare still be available for Alaska Airlines flights?
Yes, the Companion Fare can still be used on Alaska Airlines flights in addition to the new Hawaiian Airlines options. -
How long is my Companion Fare valid?
The Companion Fare is valid for one year from the issue date. -
Can Hawaii residents still access free bags on inter-island flights?
Yes, Hawaii residents can still access free bags through the Huaka'i program, which remains unchanged and exclusive to Hawaii residents.