Alaska Airlines set to retire Hawaiian's IATA code amid ongoing merger integration

Once these changes are complete, all internal systems at Hawaiian—including ticketing, reservations, crew scheduling, maintenance operations, and pilot call signs—will be integrated into Alaska’s operations. The disappearance of Hawaiian’s independent code follows a pattern seen in previous airline mergers; for instance, Virgin America’s VX code was retired after its merger with Alaska Airlines in 2018.

The IATA code change comes as both carriers work toward obtaining a single operating certificate (SOC), which is considered a significant milestone in airline integrations. DOT approval granted in July 2025 allows Alaska Air Group not only to assume operating certificates but also transfer or amend existing authorizations held by both airlines.

Currently, Hawaiian Airlines maintains codeshare partnerships with Japan Airlines—a member of oneworld—as well as Air China, China Airlines, Korean Air, Philippine Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Virgin Australia. Meanwhile, Alaska has codeshare agreements with Air Tahiti Nui, Condor, Icelandair, Korean Air (excluding its oneworld partners), and STARLUX Airlines; it recently ended partnerships with Singapore Airlines and LATAM.

Looking ahead at further integration steps: “The next phase of integration will see the launch of Atmos Rewards,” a shared loyalty program for customers of both airlines. Leadership structures are being aligned and product offerings along with ticketing systems harmonized so that “customers will soon enjoy a more seamless experience when booking and flying with either carrier.”

With its history rooted mainly in domestic travel and short-haul routes within North America—according to recent developments—Alaska is now entering long-haul international markets using aircraft inherited from Hawaiian's fleet. Last month marked the start of Seattle–Tokyo flights operated by former Hawaiian aircraft under Alaska management.

A notable part of future plans includes expansion into Europe: “Next year will see the airline start flying to London Heathrow (LHR) and Rome Fiumicino (FCO) from its hub at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) with the 787 fleet.”