Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have announced a major expansion of their premium travel offerings. The plans include new Aurora Suites for Alaska, enhanced Leihōkū Suites for Hawaiian, a new premium economy cabin called Premium Reserve, and dedicated airport experiences in Seattle and Honolulu.
Aurora Suites Bring Lie-Flat Seating to More Alaska Flights
Alaska plans to put 12 Aurora Suites on each of at least 25 Boeing 737-10 MAX aircraft. These planes will operate select transcontinental flights beginning in 2028, marking the airline’s first move into lie-flat seating on its 737 fleet.
For someone taking an overnight departure before a morning meeting, the ability to lie down can carry more weight than a larger screen or an upgraded meal.
Alaska’s Dreamliners will also receive Aurora Suites, with 34 per aircraft. The announced features include direct aisle access, lie-flat beds, 19-inch screens and privacy doors on the 787.
Hawaiian’s A330s Are Getting a Full Cabin Redesign
Hawaiian will begin updating its 24 Airbus A330s in 2028. Each renovated aircraft will have 22 enhanced Leihōkū Suites with privacy doors, lie-flat seating and direct aisle access.
For premium travelers, direct aisle access is important. Being able to leave a seat without stepping around another passenger becomes more useful as the flight gets longer, especially when someone nearby is sleeping.
The renovation will extend throughout the aircraft, rather than stopping at the business class.
A New Option Between Lie-Flat Suites and Premium Class
Premium Reserve will introduce a dedicated premium economy cabin on Alaska’s Dreamliners, Hawaiian’s A330s and select Alaska 737-10 MAX aircraft.
The seats will offer 38 inches of pitch, additional recline, leg and calf rests, and upgraded dining. Sales are expected to begin in summer 2027 for flights featuring the new cabin from 2028.
Travelers comparing fares upon booking should pay attention to the name: Premium Reserve and Premium Class will be separate products.
For those who want more space but do not need a flat bed, Premium Reserve could become a useful option.
The Premium Experience Starts Before Boarding
At Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Alaska plans to open a connected Alaska Lounge and Aurora Lounge in late 2027. The Aurora space will serve eligible suite travelers on intercontinental flights and include features such as showers, wellness areas and made-to-order dining. Hawaiian is planning a new lounge of nearly 13,000 square feet in Honolulu for early 2028, with access for Leihōkū Suites guests among its eligibility provisions.
These announcements add more potential premium cabin choices across Alaska and Hawaiian’s networks, especially for travelers connecting through Seattle or Honolulu.
The Flight King can help travelers compare available Business and First Class itineraries, review the scheduled aircraft and seat product, and find the best fit for a trip’s timing and comfort priorities. For a personalized quote on upcoming travel, contact The Flight King.