Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines Reach Key Integration Milestone: A Single Operating Certificate
Alaska Airlines has achieved a decisive step in its integration process with Hawaiian Airlines by obtaining a Single Operating Certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This milestone, reached just over a year after the union of the two airlines, represents the fulfillment of an essential regulatory requirement and reflects the successful harmonization of training, policies, procedures, and manuals between the two companies.
A Joint Effort Marking a New Stage
“Congratulations to everyone at Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines on reaching the single operating certificate. This was a year-long, multi-phase effort involving multiple departments and thousands of work hours. We also thank the FAA and the U.S. Department of Transportation for their guidance and support as we reviewed and aligned our processes with a shared focus on safety,” said Ben Minicucci, President and CEO of Alaska Air Group.
“This is an important step in our journey as a combined organization, and I am excited for our future together,” he added.
What Changes for Passengers
Although both airlines now operate under a single call sign (AS)—used internally by pilots and dispatchers to communicate with air traffic control—passengers will continue to enjoy the distinct brand experiences of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, driven by their respective teams and reinforced by a growing joint global network and the benefits of the Atmos™ Rewards loyalty program.
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The only visible modification for travelers will be in flight numbering. While Hawaiian Airlines flights will continue to display the ‘HA’ designator, some flight numbers have been adjusted to avoid duplication between the two brands. Where possible, similar numbers were retained, although many were completely reassigned.
Progress Towards Full Integration
The acquisition of the SOC paves the way for other ongoing initiatives, such as unifying scheduling and passenger service systems, which will enable a smoother travel experience across both brands. Crew, airport, and maintenance teams will also be integrated under joint collective bargaining agreements.
By next spring, the airlines expect to operate with a single Passenger Service System (PSS), the technology that manages reservations, purchases, and daily operations. Starting in April, all flights will carry the ‘AS’ code, although customers will still be able to book Hawaiian Airlines flights and enjoy the spirit of ho’okipa hospitality that characterizes the brand. These flights will be clearly identified with the image of the iconic Pualani aircraft across all digital channels.
New Leadership Based in Honolulu
With the operating certificate now in effect, several management positions based in Honolulu are formally assuming their roles to support both the Hawaiian brand and the combined operations to, from, and within Hawaii.
Diana Birkett Rakow, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, becomes Chief Executive Officer of Hawaiian Airlines, succeeding Joe Sprague, who is retiring after a distinguished career at Alaska Air Group.
Jim Landers, previously Senior Vice President of Technical Operations at Hawaiian Airlines, assumes the role of Head of Operations in Hawaii.
Shelly Parker, Vice President of Station Operations and Inflight Service at Horizon Air, will be the Head of Guest Services Operations in Hawaii.
These leaders will work alongside other members of the leadership team in Honolulu to consolidate the operational integration and strengthen the group’s presence in the archipelago.
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