The future of air travel in Hawaii is at a crossroads, with the aging Boeing 717 fleet facing an uncertain future. This iconic aircraft, a staple of interisland travel for over two decades, is nearing the end of its useful life, prompting a critical question: What comes next?
The answer lies in the Boeing 737, a familiar sight for many Hawaii flyers. Alaska Airlines, the dominant player in the Hawaiian skies, has hinted at a shift towards the 737-800 variant, a move that could significantly impact the travel experience for island-hoppers.
The Comfort Conundrum
What makes this transition intriguing is the trade-off between comfort and practicality. The 717's 2-3 seating arrangement, with only one middle seat per row, has been a hallmark of interisland travel, offering couples and solo travelers a more spacious experience. In contrast, the 737's 3-3 layout means roughly double the number of middle seats, potentially squeezing passengers and altering the familiar dynamics of island-hopping.
Technical Considerations
The 717's unique design, tailored for short, frequent flights with quick turns and heavy daily use, makes it a challenging replacement. The aircraft's ability to handle the demanding interisland routes, with high takeoff and landing counts, rapid turns, and exposure to salt air, is a testament to its durability. However, the aging fleet requires careful maintenance, as evidenced by recent inspections for cracking in upper lock link assemblies.
The 737-800: A Familiar Face
Alaska's apparent preference for the 737-800 is understandable. With its existing fleet, pilots, and maintenance systems, the transition to Hawaiian livery is relatively straightforward. However, this choice comes at a cost. The 737-800's larger cabin and potential reduction in flight frequencies could lead to a denser travel experience, especially on less-demanded routes.
Exploring Alternatives
While the 737-800 is a strong contender, other options exist. The Airbus A220, with its modern efficiency and 2-3 cabin layout, offers a compelling alternative. However, it diverges from Alaska's Boeing-centric fleet, adding complexity. The Embraer E175 and E195-E2, already in use by Horizon, provide regional jet experience, but their role in Alaska's future remains uncertain.
Delta's Exit and Alaska's Dilemma
Delta's decision to accelerate the retirement of its oldest 717s sends a signal to Hawaii. With Alaska and Hawaiian as the only other 717 operators in the U.S., this move could influence the timing of the replacement for the Hawaiian fleet. The question of when and how to replace the 717 becomes more pressing as the aircraft's economic viability wanes.
A Mixed Fleet Approach
In the end, a mixed fleet of 737 aircraft seems most plausible. This approach balances the need for a comfortable 2-3 seating arrangement with Alaska's existing resources. Some 737s could remain in Hawaii for heavy interisland frequencies, while others could be deployed for longer routes, potentially mirroring Southwest's model with the A321neo.
Implications for Travelers
The transition to the 737-800 would bring noticeable changes. More middle seats, a denser cabin, and altered schedules could impact the travel experience. While the 737-800 can move more passengers, it may also reduce flight frequencies on certain routes, potentially affecting convenience and accessibility.
In the end, the replacement of the 717 is a complex decision, influenced by technical, economic, and operational considerations. The aircraft that best suits Alaska's fleet may not be the same as the one travelers prefer. As the fleet ages and replacement choices narrow, the future of interisland travel in Hawaii hangs in the balance, leaving passengers to adapt to a new era of air travel.
