Alaska Airlines Adds Widebody 787-9 Capacity on Seattle–Maui Route for Holiday Season

Airplane wing visible through a window at sunset over a dark landscape and city lights below.

Alaska Airlines will deploy Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft on the Seattle to Kahului route during the Thanksgiving and Christmas/New Year holiday windows for the 2026-2027 season. The switch from narrowbody jets increases passenger capacity per flight without adding additional airport slots. Alaska Airlines is temporarily upgrading the SEA-OGG route to widebody Boeing 787-9 aircraft during […]

Hawaii Visitor Spending Up 14% Despite Full Flights and Rising Complaints

Tropical bay and ocean view — Hawaii Visitor Spending Up 14% Despite Full Flights and Rising Complaints | Maui Tom's News

April 2026 data shows visitors are spending $278 per person per day, up 14.1% from last year, even as many travelers complain about high costs and say they’re done with Hawaii. Planes remain fully booked despite widespread price concerns. Hawaii visitors spent $278 per person per day in April 2026, representing a 14.1% increase from […]

Hawaii Tourism Revenue Rises 5% Despite Fewer April Visitors

Sunny tropical beach with palm trees, a small sailboat on the sand, and a thatched umbrella with lounge chairs by the shore.

Hawaii tourism generated $1.77 billion in April, up nearly 5% from 2025, even though visitor numbers dropped slightly. Tourists spent more per day but stayed for shorter periods. Total visitor spending reached $1.77 billion in April, a 5% increase despite 0.5% fewer arrivals. Daily visitor spending jumped 14.1% to $278 per person, but average stays […]

Hawaii Tourism Brand Struggles to Retain Loyal Visitor Confidence

Tropical beach with palm trees — Hawaii Tourism Brand Struggles to Retain Loyal Visitor Confidence | Maui Tom's News

Long-time Hawaii visitors report declining brand loyalty and confidence in the destination, citing concerns beyond just high prices. International travelers are questioning whether Hawaii still wants tourists, particularly following the Lahaina fire. Repeat visitors say Hawaii’s brand loyalty has weakened, with the destination no longer feeling worth high costs and long flights. The issue goes […]