Flying with Hawaiian Airlines offers passengers a range of seat selection options that cater to different preferences, ensuring a comfortable journey for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking extra legroom, priority boarding, or a seat with a window view of the Pacific Ocean, understanding how to navigate the seat selection process can significantly enhance your experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through the Hawaiian Airlines seat selection process, tips for getting the best seats, and how to maximise comfort on your flight.
Understanding Hawaiian Airlines Seat Classes
When it comes to seat selection, Hawaiian Airlines offers various classes of service, each providing distinct levels of comfort and amenities. Knowing the differences between these classes is crucial when deciding which seat to choose.
First Class
First Class passengers enjoy the ultimate luxury in the air. The seats in this class are spacious and can recline fully into a flatbed. With only a few rows of First Class seats on each plane, these are highly coveted. Passengers in First Class also enjoy priority boarding, enhanced meal service, and access to airport lounges. Seat selection is included with the purchase of a First Class ticket.
Extra Comfort
For those who seek additional legroom and priority boarding without the price tag of First Class, Extra Comfort seats are an excellent option. These seats offer up to five inches of extra legroom and come with early boarding, priority security screening, and personal electrical outlets. Selecting these seats can be done during or after booking for an additional fee.
Main Cabin
The Main Cabin seats offer standard comfort and are the most affordable option on Hawaiian Airlines. While these seats do not come with the perks of First Class or Extra Comfort, passengers can still select their preferred seat during or after booking for a nominal fee. Seat selection is based on availability, so it’s best to choose as early as possible to secure the most desirable spot.
Basic Economy
Passengers who opt for Basic Economy fares will experience the lowest price but the most restrictions. Basic Economy passengers cannot select seats in advance, meaning seat assignments are made at check-in. These seats are often middle seats and located in less desirable parts of the plane, such as near the lavatories. Upgrading to a higher class of service will allow for more control over seat selection.
How to Select Your Seat on Hawaiian Airlines
During Booking
When purchasing a ticket on Hawaiian Airlines, you will be given the option to select your seat during the booking process. After inputting your travel information, you’ll be taken to the seat map, where available seats are clearly displayed. First Class and Extra Comfort seats will be marked for passengers who are willing to pay extra for premium seating. Main Cabin seats are available for selection, while Basic Economy passengers will not have seat selection privileges.
After Booking
If you didn’t select a seat during the initial booking, you can still choose your seat later by visiting the “Manage Flights” section on the Hawaiian Airlines website. Simply input your reservation details to access the seat map. We recommend making your selection early to ensure the best seats are available.
At Check-In
For those who are flexible with seating or who booked Basic Economy fares, seat assignments are made at check-in. This can be done online 24 hours before departure or at the airport. Keep in mind that the earlier you check in, the better your chances of securing a desirable seat. Hawaiian Airlines allows you to upgrade to Extra Comfort seats during the check-in process if they are available.
Tips for Getting the Best Seats on Hawaiian Airlines
Securing the best seat on a Hawaiian Airlines flight can make a big difference in your travel experience. Here are a few insider tips to help you get the most out of the seat selection process.
Book Early
The earlier you book your flight, the more seat options will be available. Hawaiian Airlines offers passengers the ability to choose their seats as soon as the booking is complete. Seats in high-demand areas like the front of the plane, window seats, or aisle seats go quickly, so early booking is crucial.
Consider Upgrading to Extra Comfort
If you’re looking for more legroom or want to enjoy the perks of priority boarding and early access to overhead bins, consider upgrading to Extra Comfort seats. These seats are located towards the front of the plane and offer up to five extra inches of legroom.
Use SeatGuru or Similar Tools
To ensure you’re choosing the best seat, use online tools like SeatGuru. This site allows you to input your flight number and provides a detailed seat map, highlighting which seats have more legroom, which are near the restrooms, and which offer the best views. This can be a valuable resource in making an informed decision.
Join Hawaiian Airlines’ Loyalty programme
Frequent flyers who are part of Hawaiian Airlines’ HawaiianMiles loyalty programme may have access to better seat selection perks. Members can sometimes choose better seats at no extra charge or may receive upgrades based on their status.
Monitor Seat Availability
Keep an eye on your flight’s seat map as your departure date approaches. Sometimes, better seats become available as other passengers upgrade or change their reservations. If you have a less desirable seat, checking back frequently might give you a chance to move to a better spot.
Hawaiian Seat Selection Fees and Policies
While seat selection is free for First Class passengers, those in Main Cabin and Extra Comfort may need to pay a fee for their chosen seats. The cost for seat selection varies depending on the route and the type of seat selected. Basic Economy passengers, who do not have the option to select seats in advance, should note that upgrading to a higher fare class will allow for better seat choices.
For Extra Comfort, fees typically range between $40 and $150 depending on the length of the flight. Main Cabin seat selection fees are lower but can vary by destination and availability.
Hawaiian Airlines’ Family Seating Policy
Hawaiian Airlines strives to seat families together, though it is not guaranteed unless seats are selected in advance. For families travelling with young children, it’s recommended to select seats as soon as the booking is complete. If seats together are not available, contacting Hawaiian Airlines customer service may help in securing group seating.
Conclusion
Choosing the right seat on Hawaiian Airlines can significantly impact the quality of your flight. By understanding the different classes of service, booking early, and taking advantage of seat selection tools, you can enhance your overall travel experience. Whether you opt for the luxury of First Class, the added comfort of Extra Comfort, or the affordability of Main Cabin, there’s a seat for every traveler’s needs.
