Hawaiian Airlines: Baggage Fees, Inflight Entertainment & Terminal Changes

Few things derail a trip like a last‑minute terminal change or surprise baggage fee. Whether you’re headed to the islands or just passing through Los Angeles, a handful of quick updates can save time and money.

Founded: 1929 ·
Hub: Honolulu (Daniel K. Inouye International Airport) ·
Destinations: 25+ ·
Punctuality: Consistently ranked most punctual U.S. airline ·
Alignment: Alaska Airlines at LAX (2024)

Seven facts, one takeaway: Hawaiian Airlines is operationally stable but in the middle of a terminal shuffle at its biggest mainland gateway. Here’s the full picture.

Did Hawaiian Airlines change terminals at LAX?

Yes — more than once. In October 2021, Hawaiian Airlines moved its LAX operations from Terminal 5 to the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) to align with partner Alaska Airlines. The move added about 15 minutes of walking time from check‑in to the West Gates via an underground walkway. Arriving passengers picked up bags at the first‑floor baggage claim. Alaska Air Newsroom official press office

What is the new terminal alignment with Alaska Airlines?

Then in April 2025, Los Angeles International Airport announced that Hawaiian Airlines would start operating out of Terminal 6 effective April 22. Ticket counters moved to the east end of Terminal 5, closest to Terminal 6, with signage to guide passengers. Los Angeles International Airport official airport authority Just two months later, a Hawaiian Airlines Instagram post showed ticket counters in Terminal B again, suggesting the situation is fluid. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier Instagram

Travelers connecting between West Gates and Terminals 4 through 8 can use a sterile corridor without clearing additional security. Alaska Air Newsroom official press office

The implication: travelers must treat the LAX terminal as a variable, not a given, every time they fly.

How to watch movies on Hawaiian Airlines?

Hawaiian Airlines offers free inflight entertainment streamed directly to your personal device. You need the Hawaiian Airlines app installed before boarding to access movies, TV shows, and music. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier

Does Hawaiian Airlines have seat‑back screens?

Not on all aircraft. The airline’s fleet includes Airbus A330s with seat‑back screens, but many of its Boeing 717s (used for inter‑island routes) do not have them. Passengers on shorter flights should always bring a charged device. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier

How to stream on personal devices?

• Download the Hawaiian Airlines app from the App Store or Google Play before your flight.
• Connect to the onboard Wi‑Fi network (no purchase needed for the streaming portal).
• Open the app and browse the library. Headphones are recommended but not provided on all aircraft.

Hawaiian Airlines official carrier

How do I add baggage to my Hawaiian Airlines flight?

You can add checked baggage during booking or later through the Manage Reservations section on Hawaiian Airlines’ website. The official site publishes fee schedules by route and fare class. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier

Here is a breakdown of the typical fee structure:

Three tiers, one pattern: the cheapest option is to include bags when you book. Adding them later costs more but is still possible. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier

Can I add baggage after booking?

1. Log in to your Hawaiian Airlines account at hawaiianairlines.com.
2. Go to Manage Reservations and select your flight.
3. Choose the baggage option and pay the fee.
4. You can also add bags at the airport ticket counter or at a self‑service kiosk. Hawaiian Airlines Airport Guides official carrier

The pattern: paying at booking saves money, but late additions remain possible at a premium.

Is Hawaiian Airlines being phased out?

No — not according to any official source. Hawaiian Airlines continues to operate as an independent carrier. The airline describes itself as Hawaiʻi’s largest and longest‑serving airline. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier Rumors of a phase‑out or a full merger with Alaska Airlines remain unconfirmed; no announcement of cessation has been made. Alaska Air Newsroom official press office

What is the operational alignment with Alaska Airlines?

The two carriers have aligned terminal operations at LAX, and Hawaiian’s airport guide pages are now presented as part of the combined Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines network. Hawaiian Airlines Airport Guides official carrier This operational coordination does not equal a merger. Hawaiian still maintains its own brand, schedule, and loyalty program.

The catch: speculation thrives where official silence persists, so travelers should rely only on published sources.

What is the 3‑1‑1 rule on Hawaiian Airlines?

The 3‑1‑1 rule is set by the TSA and applies to all flights departing from U.S. airports, including Hawaiian Airlines. Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry‑on bags must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and all containers must fit into one quart‑sized clear plastic bag. Hawaii Airports Division state authority

What drinks should I avoid on a flight?

For hydration and comfort, flight attendants and health experts often recommend avoiding alcohol and excessive caffeine. Both can contribute to dehydration in the dry cabin air. Stick to water or electrolyte drinks before and during the flight. Hawaiian Airlines official carrier

1. Pack liquids in 3.4 oz or smaller containers.
2. Place them in a single quart‑sized clear bag.
3. Remove the bag from your carry‑on at the security checkpoint.

Hawaii Airports Division state authority

The pattern: compliance with TSA rules is straightforward, and smart drink choices improve comfort onboard.

For travelers who fly Hawaiian Airlines, the bottom line is practical: terminals change, but the airline itself is not going anywhere. Check the official airport guide before each trip, add baggage online to save money, and bring your own device for inflight entertainment. The operational alignment with Alaska Airlines is a real shift in how the two carriers coordinate, but it hasn’t changed Hawaiian’s core identity as a standalone airline serving Hawaiʻi and the mainland.

Frequently asked questions