Unlock More Rewards: Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines Elevate Loyalty Benefits with Status Matches and Mile Redemptions
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have introduced exciting new benefits for their loyal customers, including a reciprocal elite status match program and enhanced mileage redemption opportunities. These developments aim to provide a more seamless and rewarding experience for frequent flyers across both networks, reflecting the deepening partnership between the two carriers.
Elite Status Match and Benefits
One of the standout features of this collaboration is the elite status match program. This allows frequent flyers with elite status in one airline’s loyalty program to match their status in the other’s program. Here’s how it works:
- Eligibility: Hawaiian Airlines’ HawaiianMiles and Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan members with elite status can apply for a match. The process requires proof of elite status, including details about recent flight activity.
- Application Process:
- For Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan: Members need to sign up for the Mileage Plan program and submit an online status match request or email their application to elite.flyer@alaskaair.com, including the necessary documentation.
- For Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles: Members can complete an online customer service form and attach proof of their elite status.
- Challenge Period: Matched elite status is granted for an initial 90 days. Flyers can extend this status by meeting specific travel requirements during the challenge period:
- Fly 5,000 miles for MVP status.
- Fly 10,000 miles for MVP Gold status.
- Fly 20,000 miles for MVP Gold 75K status. If successful, the elite status is extended through December of the following calendar year.
Mileage Redemption Opportunities
The partnership also enhances the ability of members to redeem miles across both networks:
- Direct Booking: Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan members can now redeem their miles for Hawaiian Airlines flights directly through Alaska’s website or mobile app. This integration simplifies the process, allowing customers to explore and book flights seamlessly across the two networks.
- Mileage Transfers: Members can transfer miles between Alaska’s Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles at a 1:1 ratio without any fees. This feature provides added flexibility for travelers who want to maximize their mileage value by utilizing both airlines’ extensive route networks.
How to transfer miles between Alaska and Hawaiian
If you have a balance of HawaiianMiles (or recently transferred Amex points to Hawaiian Airlines) and want to convert them to Alaska miles, begin by visiting the Points.com page. Select the program to which you wish to transfer your miles—Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.
From there, sign in to both your Alaska and Hawaiian accounts.
Next, you’ll be directed to a screen where you can confirm the number of miles you wish to transfer. A convenient slider is provided for this purpose, but remember that transfers must be made in increments of 50 miles.
You’ll then see a confirmation page indicating that the transfer was successful.
Strategic Partnership Goals
These new programs highlight the broader strategic goals of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to enhance their offerings and strengthen their competitive positioning. For customers, this translates into:
- Broader Network Access: Flyers can now enjoy the extensive reach of both airlines, which cover destinations across North America, Hawaii, and Asia.
- Enhanced Travel Experience: With elite status benefits such as priority boarding, lounge access, and complimentary upgrades extended to both networks, frequent flyers gain more value and convenience.
- Future Integration Plans: The partnership is expected to evolve further, with a thoroughly combined loyalty program anticipated by mid-2025. This move will streamline rewards and benefits, ensuring a unified experience for all members.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan member or a HawaiianMiles member, this enhanced partnership offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds. The combined elite status benefits, expanded mileage redemption options, and seamless network integration ensure frequent flyers can travel more easily and flexibly. This collaboration rewards loyalty and opens up new possibilities for exploring exciting destinations across two well-respected airlines.