Hawaiian Airlines offers a well-regarded Economy Class experience with authentic island hospitality, complimentary meals, and comfortable seating. Whether you’re flying interisland or on a long-haul route to the U.S. mainland or Asia-Pacific, Hawaiian Airlines provides solid value in its Main Cabin. In this guide, we’ll cover seating, fares, entertainment, baggage, and what to expect when flying Hawaiian Airlines Economy.
What is Economy Class on Hawaiian Airlines?
Hawaiian Airlines refers to its Economy Class as Main Cabin, with two fare options:
- Main Cabin – Includes complimentary meals, snacks, seat selection, and change flexibility
- Main Cabin Basic – Lower-cost fare with limited flexibility, no seat selection until check-in, and final boarding group
How Do Main Cabin and Main Cabin Basic Compare?
| Feature | Main Cabin | Main Cabin Basic |
| Seat Selection | Included at booking | Not included |
| Flight Changes | Allowed (fees may apply) | Not changeable |
| Boarding Group | Earlier boarding | Final boarding group |
| HawaiianMiles Accrual | Full miles and status-qualifying segments | Reduced earnings |
| Upgrades | Eligible | Not eligible |
What Are the Seats Like in Hawaiian Airlines Economy?
Economy seats vary slightly by aircraft, but typically include:
- Seat pitch of 30–32 inches
- Seat width of 17–18 inches
- Adjustable headrests
- USB or standard power outlets (on Airbus A330 and A321neo)
- Tablet-style entertainment via app or shared overhead screens
What is Included in Hawaiian Airlines Economy?
Regardless of fare type, all Main Cabin passengers receive:
- Complimentary meal service on transpacific and international routes
- Free snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
- In-flight entertainment via the Hawaiian Airlines app or shared monitors
- Island-style service and aloha spirit from crew members
Does Hawaiian Airlines Economy Include Baggage?
Baggage policies depend on route and fare type:
- One carry-on and one personal item are included for all Economy fares
- Checked bags are not included in Main Cabin fares on most routes and must be purchased separately
- Elite members and co-branded credit card holders may receive free checked baggage
You can find current fees on the
Hawaiian Airlines baggage fees page.
Is Main Cabin Basic Worth It?
Main Cabin Basic may be a good option for travelers who:
- Want the lowest fare and don’t mind where they sit
- Don’t need to make changes
- Are traveling light and solo
For those who want flexibility, seat selection, or are flying with family, regular Main Cabin is the better choice.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Airlines Economy (Main Cabin) offers a warm and welcoming experience that stands out among U.S. carriers. With complimentary meals, a relaxed cabin atmosphere, and the spirit of aloha throughout, it’s a great choice for flying to or from Hawaii. Main Cabin Basic is available for budget travelers but comes with key limitations.
FAQs
1. Does Hawaiian Airlines provide meals in Economy?
Yes, complimentary meals are provided on transpacific and international flights.
2. Can I choose my seat in Economy?
Yes, with Main Cabin fares. Main Cabin Basic does not allow advance seat selection.
3. Is Wi-Fi available on Hawaiian Airlines?
Wi-Fi is currently not available on Hawaiian Airlines flights, but they plan to roll it out in the future.
4. Are there power outlets in Economy?
Yes, most A330 and A321neo aircraft offer power outlets in Economy.
5. Can I earn HawaiianMiles in Economy?
Yes, all fares earn HawaiianMiles, though earnings are reduced on Main Cabin Basic tickets.
