FAA Awards Single Operating Certificate to Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines

Alaska Airlines has received a single operating certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which permits it to operate alongside Hawaiian Airlines while maintaining both brands independently.

This achievement comes a little over a year following the merger of the two airlines and signifies the successful navigation of a significant regulatory challenge. With this certificate, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines have effectively unified their training programs, operational policies, manuals, and procedures.

Changes Behind the Scenes

Travelers can expect to enjoy the unique experiences of both the Alaska and Hawaiian brands during their journeys.

However, there are technical adjustments happening behind the curtain. Pilots and dispatchers will now use a single call sign (AS) when communicating with air traffic control, irrespective of which airline they represent.

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The most apparent change for passengers will be in flight numbers. While Hawaiian Airlines flights will continue to carry the HA designator, many have been assigned new numbers to avoid duplication with Alaska Airlines flights. Although Alaska made efforts to retain similar numbers where feasible, entirely new numbers were often required.

Hawaiian Airlines has joined Alaska Airlines! A first for a U.S. airline, we will maintain both of these beloved brands, and we can’t wait to share the many exciting things that you can look forward to over the next 18 months. Learn more: https://t.co/4x8L7eZ6Fp pic.twitter.com/lTa39I1Uj8

— Alaska Airlines (@AlaskaAir) September 18, 2024

What Will Happen Next?

The SOC paves the way for further integration initiatives that are already in progress. Alaska and Hawaiian are collaborating to merge their scheduling and passenger service systems, aiming to provide a more seamless experience for travelers using either airline.

Additionally, Alaska Airlines stated that they are working on the integration of flight crews, airport personnel, and maintenance teams under shared labor agreements.

The next significant development is anticipated in spring 2026, when both airlines plan to shift to a single passenger service system. This is the primary technology platform that supports booking, ticketing, and day-of-travel operations.