Alaska Airlines to replace Boeing 717s with 737-800s for Hawaiian island service

Alaska Airlines is set to transition its operations within the Hawaiian islands by replacing its aging fleet of Boeing 717 aircraft with new Boeing 737-800 models. This strategic shift will commence in October, marking a significant change in the airline’s approach to intra-island travel. Initially, one Alaska-branded 737 will operate three round trips daily between Honolulu and Kahului. The decision reflects Alaska Air Group's assessment that the 737-800 is ideally suited for the demands of short flights across the Hawaiian archipelago. This upgrade promises enhanced operational efficiency and capacity for passenger service throughout the region.