Can You Use Alaska Miles on Hawaiian Airlines? Let’s Dive In!

The short answer is no, you cannot directly use Alaska Airlines miles on Hawaiian Airlines. While both airlines operate extensively within and from the Hawaiian Islands, they are not part of the same airline alliance or formal partnership that allows for direct mileage redemption.

However, the travel world is a complex web, and savvy travelers can often find roundabout ways to achieve their goals. Let’s explore why direct redemption isn’t possible and delve into some alternative strategies.

Why No Direct Redemption? Understanding Airline Alliances and Partnerships

Airline Alliances: A Global Network

Airlines often form alliances like Oneworld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam to offer benefits such as code-sharing (selling seats on each other’s flights), reciprocal mileage earning, and mileage redemption across the network. Alaska Airlines is a member of Oneworld, while Hawaiian Airlines is not part of any major alliance.

Bilateral Partnerships: Connecting the Dots

Beyond alliances, airlines can also establish bilateral partnerships. These agreements allow for more limited forms of cooperation, such as code-sharing or mileage earning opportunities. However, even with these partnerships, direct mileage redemption isn’t always guaranteed.

The Alaska-Hawaiian Relationship: Friendly Neighbors, Not Partners

While Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are significant players in the Hawaiian travel market, they haven’t established a partnership that includes mileage redemption. This means you can’t simply transfer your Alaska Airlines miles to HawaiianMiles or use them to book Hawaiian Airlines flights directly. It’s akin to having store credit at two completely separate retailers; they are not interchangeable.

Alternative Strategies: Maximizing Your Miles for Hawaiian Travel

So, if you can’t directly use your Alaska miles, what can you do? Here are a few strategies to consider:

• Use Alaska Miles on Oneworld Partners: While you can’t use Alaska miles directly on Hawaiian Airlines, you can use them on Oneworld partners like American Airlines or Japan Airlines that fly to Hawaii. This might involve connecting flights, but it’s a viable option.
• Earn HawaiianMiles Separately: The simplest approach is to actively earn HawaiianMiles through flights on Hawaiian Airlines, spending on a Hawaiian Airlines credit card, or utilizing their various partner programs. This allows you to directly redeem HawaiianMiles for flights on Hawaiian Airlines.
• Consider Transferable Credit Card Points: Credit cards like Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, or Capital One Miles offer the flexibility to transfer points to various airline loyalty programs. While neither Alaska nor Hawaiian are direct transfer partners, you could potentially transfer to a partner of either airline and then leverage that partnership. This can be a complex, and often not optimal, route.
• Cash is King (Sometimes): Don’t underestimate the value of simply paying for your Hawaiian Airlines flights with cash, especially if you find a good deal. Compare the cost of a redemption flight versus a paid flight and see which offers a better value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I transfer Alaska Airlines miles to HawaiianMiles?

No, Alaska Airlines miles cannot be directly transferred to HawaiianMiles. The two programs operate independently and do not have a transfer agreement.

2. Does Alaska Airlines fly to all the Hawaiian Islands?

Yes, Alaska Airlines flies to the major Hawaiian Islands, including Oahu (Honolulu), Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island (Kona).

3. What are the best ways to earn Alaska Airlines miles quickly?

The most efficient ways to earn Alaska miles include flying with Alaska Airlines and its Oneworld partners, using the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature credit card for everyday spending, and taking advantage of bonus mileage promotions offered by Alaska Airlines and its partners.

4. Can I use a combination of Alaska Airlines miles and cash for a Hawaiian Airlines flight?

Unfortunately, no. Since you can’t directly use Alaska miles on Hawaiian Airlines, you cannot combine them with cash for a Hawaiian Airlines booking.

5. Are there any credit cards that earn both Alaska miles and HawaiianMiles?

No, there are no credit cards that simultaneously earn both Alaska miles and HawaiianMiles. You will need to choose a card specifically tied to either the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan or the HawaiianMiles program.

6. How can I find award availability on Oneworld partner airlines that fly to Hawaii using Alaska miles?

Use the Alaska Airlines website or mobile app to search for award flights on partner airlines. Look for flights operated by American Airlines or Japan Airlines to Hawaii. Remember to be flexible with your travel dates to increase your chances of finding available award seats. You can also use partner airline websites to search for flights before searching on Alaska’s website to confirm.

7. What is the value of an Alaska Airlines mile?

The value of an Alaska Airlines mile typically ranges from 1.8 to 2.0 cents per mile. This valuation can fluctuate based on the specific redemption. Premium cabin redemptions (business or first class) often yield higher value.

8. Is it worth getting a Hawaiian Airlines credit card?

If you frequently fly Hawaiian Airlines and want to accumulate HawaiianMiles quickly, a Hawaiian Airlines credit card can be a worthwhile investment. The card typically offers bonus miles upon approval, accelerated mileage earning on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, and other travel-related benefits.

9. Can I use HawaiianMiles on Alaska Airlines?

No, you cannot use HawaiianMiles on Alaska Airlines. Just like the reverse situation, there is no reciprocal agreement for mileage redemption between the two airlines.

10. Are there any hotels in Hawaii that partner with Alaska Airlines or Hawaiian Airlines for earning miles?

Yes, both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines partner with various hotel chains and individual properties in Hawaii. Check the respective airline websites for a list of participating hotels and details on how to earn miles for your stay.

11. What should I do if I have a large number of Alaska miles and no immediate plans to use them for travel to Hawaii?

Consider using your Alaska miles for travel to other destinations served by Alaska Airlines and its Oneworld partners. Explore international destinations or domestic routes that offer good value for your miles. Alternatively, you could redeem your miles for hotel stays, car rentals, or other travel-related expenses through the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan program.

12. What are the cancellation policies for award flights booked with Alaska miles on partner airlines to Hawaii?

Cancellation policies vary depending on the partner airline and the fare class. Generally, award tickets booked with Alaska miles are subject to cancellation fees, and the amount may depend on the timing of the cancellation. Check the specific terms and conditions on the Alaska Airlines website or contact their customer service for details regarding your specific booking. Always read the fine print!

While the inability to directly use Alaska miles on Hawaiian Airlines might seem like a setback, understanding the broader landscape of airline alliances, partnerships, and alternative redemption options can empower you to strategically maximize your miles and still achieve your travel goals. Happy travels!