Planning a trip to Hawaii and eager to explore more than one island? Island hopping is a quintessential Hawaiian experience, and thankfully, several airlines specialize in making inter-island travel seamless. Navigating the Hawaiian islands is a unique experience, and understanding which airlines operate these routes is key to planning your perfect island adventure.
Top Airlines for Hawaiian Island Hopping
When it comes to flying between the Hawaiian Islands, you have a few excellent choices, each with its own strengths depending on your needs and preferences. Let’s explore the primary airlines that keep Hawaii connected.
Hawaiian Airlines
As the largest airline in Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines offers an extensive network of inter-island flights. They connect major airports like Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui, Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island, and Lihue Airport (LIH) in Kauai. Known for their reliable service and comfortable flights, Hawaiian Airlines frequently operates flights between these hubs and smaller island destinations. With a strong focus on Hawaiian hospitality, your island hopping adventure can start the moment you step onboard. Flights typically range from 30 to 55 minutes, maximizing your time on each island.
Popular Hawaiian Airlines inter-island routes include:
- Honolulu (HNL) to Kahului (OGG)
- Kona (KOA) to Honolulu (HNL)
- Lihue (LIH) to Honolulu (HNL)
Mokulele Airlines
For a more intimate flying experience, Mokulele Airlines offers a unique perspective on inter-island travel. Operating Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft, Mokulele provides service to smaller airports and destinations often missed by larger airlines. This can be particularly appealing if you’re heading to more remote locations or prefer to avoid larger, busier airports. Mokulele’s network includes destinations like Lanai (LNY) and Molokai (MKK), offering access to the “Pineapple Isle” and the “Friendly Isle” respectively, in addition to the main islands. Their smaller planes offer stunning aerial views of the Hawaiian landscapes, making the journey itself a memorable part of your island exploration.
Example Mokulele Airlines routes for inter-island travel:
- Honolulu (HNL) to Lanai (LNY)
- Kahului (OGG) to Molokai (MKK)
- Honolulu (HNL) to Kapalua (JHM)
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines, while a major US carrier, has also become a significant player in the Hawaiian inter-island market. Known for their competitive pricing and customer-friendly policies (like two free checked bags), Southwest offers another excellent option for island hopping. They serve several Hawaiian airports including Honolulu (HNL), Kahului (OGG), Kona (KOA), and Lihue (LIH), providing a wide range of route options. Southwest’s entry into the Hawaiian market has increased competition, often leading to more affordable fares, making island hopping more accessible to a wider range of travelers.
Consider these Southwest inter-island routes:
- Honolulu (HNL) to Kona (KOA)
- Kahului (OGG) to Honolulu (HNL)
- Lihue (LIH) to Kahului (OGG)
Tips for Booking Hawaiian Inter-Island Flights
- Book in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, booking your inter-island flights in advance can help secure better fares and flight times.
- Compare Airlines: Check fares and schedules across Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and Southwest Airlines to find the best option for your itinerary and budget.
- Consider Airport Location: Mokulele serves smaller airports, which might be closer to your final destination on certain islands.
- Baggage Allowance: If you’re planning on checking bags, remember Southwest’s generous baggage policy.
Exploring the Hawaiian Islands is an unforgettable experience. With several reputable airlines dedicated to inter-island travel, your dream Hawaiian island hopping adventure is just a flight away.
