Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t offer a traditional Premium Economy cabin with separate service and seating, but it does provide an upgraded economy experience through its Extra Comfort seats. These seats offer more legroom and additional perks for travelers who want extra space and convenience without upgrading to First Class. In this guide, we’ll break down what Extra Comfort includes, how it compares to other seats, and whether it’s worth the upgrade.
What is Premium Economy on Hawaiian Airlines?
While Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t have a dedicated Premium Economy cabin, its Extra Comfort seats serve a similar role. Extra Comfort is available on most flights and includes:
- Up to 5 extra inches of legroom
- Priority boarding (Zone 3)
- Early access to overhead bins
- Complimentary amenity kit on international flights
- Personal electrical outlet (on Airbus A330 aircraft)
You can view full details on the Hawaiian Airlines Extra Comfort page.
How Does Extra Comfort Compare to Other Hawaiian Airlines Options?
Here’s how Extra Comfort fits into the seating hierarchy:
- First Class: Lie-flat or recliner seats (depending on route), premium meals, priority service, and lounge access on select international flights
- Extra Comfort: Main Cabin seats with added legroom and early boarding
- Main Cabin: Standard economy seats with complimentary meals and entertainment
- Main Cabin Basic: Most affordable fares with fewer flexibility options and last to board
What Do Extra Comfort Seats Look Like?
Extra Comfort seats are the same width and style as Main Cabin seats but provide additional legroom and cabin location advantages. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Extra Comfort | Main Cabin |
|---|---|---|
| Legroom (Seat Pitch) | 36–37 inches | 30–31 inches |
| Seat Width | Same as Main Cabin | Same |
| Priority Boarding | Yes (Zone 3) | No (Zones 4–5) |
| Power Outlet | Yes (on A330) | Limited |
| Amenity Kit | Yes (international only) | No |
Does Hawaiian Airlines Extra Comfort Include Lounge Access?
No, Extra Comfort seats do not include lounge access. Lounge access is available only to:
- First Class guests on international routes departing from Honolulu
- Members of the Hawaiian Airlines Premier Club or guests with a day pass to the Premier Club
How to Upgrade to Extra Comfort?
You can upgrade to Extra Comfort in the following ways:
- Select Extra Comfort seats during booking or anytime before check-in
- Use the Manage Flights section on the Hawaiian Airlines website to upgrade
- Elite Pualani members may receive complimentary or discounted upgrades, based on availability
Are Extra Comfort Seats Refundable?
Refund policies depend on the ticket type:
- Extra Comfort upgrade fees are generally non-refundable
- If the flight is canceled or changed by Hawaiian Airlines, the fee may be refunded
- If you upgrade a refundable fare and cancel, both the ticket and upgrade fee may be refunded
See Hawaiian Airlines’ full conditions of carriage for more.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Airlines Extra Comfort offers a solid upgrade for travelers seeking a more spacious and relaxed experience in economy. With added legroom, earlier boarding, and a few extra perks on international routes, it’s a worthwhile option—especially on longer flights to and from Hawaii.
FAQs
1. Is Hawaiian Airlines Extra Comfort the same as Premium Economy?
Not exactly. Extra Comfort provides similar benefits like more legroom and early boarding but is not a separate cabin class with exclusive service.
2. Does Extra Comfort come with free checked bags?
No, baggage allowance depends on your fare type or HawaiianMiles elite status, not your seat selection.
3. Can I use miles to upgrade to Extra Comfort?
Currently, Extra Comfort upgrades must be purchased with cash or credit card, not with HawaiianMiles.
4. Are meals different in Extra Comfort?
No, the same complimentary meals are served as in the Main Cabin. Only First Class receives upgraded dining.
5. Is it worth upgrading to Extra Comfort?
Yes, especially for taller travelers or those wanting a better boarding and legroom experience without paying for First Class.
