Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines Achieve Major Integration Milestone

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have reached a significant regulatory milestone by receiving a single operating certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration. The SOC allows both carriers to operate under a unified framework while maintaining their distinct brand identities, just over a year after their merger.

Ben Minicucci, president and CEO of Alaska Air Group, praised the achievement, calling it a “year-long, multi-phase effort” that harmonized training, policies, procedures, and manuals across both airlines. He also acknowledged the FAA and the U.S. Department of Transportation for their guidance throughout the integration process, emphasizing safety as the central focus.

For passengers, the integration has few visible changes. Both airlines now operate under the same call sign (AS) for air traffic control purposes, but Alaska and Hawaiian brand experiences remain distinct. Some Hawaiian Airlines flights may receive new flight numbers to avoid duplication, though efforts were made to retain familiar numbers where possible.

The SOC lays the groundwork for additional integration initiatives. Alaska and Hawaiian plan to combine scheduling and passenger service systems, streamline flight crew and airport operations, and unify maintenance teams under joint collective bargaining agreements. These changes aim to enhance efficiency and improve the travel experience across both brands.

Starting in April 2026, passengers will see a single passenger service system (PSS) in operation. All flights will carry the AS code, but Hawaiian Airlines flights will remain fully branded digitally, ensuring that travelers continue to experience the unique hospitality and culture of the airline.

Leadership changes accompany the operational integration. Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska Airlines executive vice president of public affairs and sustainability, assumes the role of CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, succeeding Joe Sprague. Jim Landers will head Hawai‘i operations, and Shelly Parker becomes head of Hawai‘i guest operations, working alongside other members of the Honolulu leadership team.

The SOC milestone marks a key step in the ongoing integration of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines. By combining regulatory compliance, operations, and technology systems, the airlines are positioned to offer a more seamless and efficient travel experience while retaining the distinctive brand identities that have earned passenger loyalty.