MoneyDec 13, 2024
Alaska and Hawaiian Will Merge Their Frequent Flyer Programs — Here’s How To Get 100K+ Miles Before They Do
Travel Arbitrage
Noah Weidner
Discover
When regulators blocked JetBlue’s planned merger with Spirit Airlines earlier this year, it felt like all hope had been lost for Alaska’s proposed deal to acquire Hawaiian — at least until regulators gave the deal the go-ahead in September. Since then, we’ve heard bits and pieces on what to expect from the airline group, which are set to continue to operate as two separate brands under one umbrella.
At its annual Investor Day earlier this week, we got a view of Alaska’s vision, including new international routes, premium offerings, and a new co-branded credit card for the two airlines. For travelers — especially ones on the West Coast — these updates bring exciting possibilities. While we’re not necessarily huge advocates for status-shopping or milemaxxing, the integration could present an opportunity for avid flyers.
Combination station: In October, weeks after closing its acquisition of Hawaiian, Alaska began allowing point transfers between its Mileage Plan and HawaiianMiles programs at a 1:1 rate. This means users can now transfer points and book flights with either airline equally.
Next year, the loyalty programs will merge entirely — and so too will their credit card programs. Hawaiian’s two credit cards — a personal and a business card — will be discontinued. This has prompted many travelers to apply for these cards while they’re still available to snag big mileage bonuses::
Since both cards are expected to be sunset, there’s little harm in going out for these points. You’ll pay $99 per card, face a hard credit pull and, in some cases like for the business card, meet a spending requirement. Worst case, Alaska devalues these points modestly come next year. Even if Alaska slightly devalues these points next year, there are more ways to make the cards work for you (even if they aren’t part of your daily rotation):
Heads up, though: Alaska miles are already hard to earn, which is why those with allegiance to the West Coast airline have weighed transferring Amex and Chase credit card points to Hawaiian too, hoping to make out 1:1 value post-merger. Those without an Alaska credit card are also on the lookout for an irresistible mileage bonus to boost their points in case Alaska tightens its program.
For credit-skeptics, Alaska already opened a waitlist for its new premium credit card and is offering 500 Mileage Plan miles to those who (just) join the waitlist — you don’t even have to commit to open the card. Just plug in your name, email, and a frequent flyer number for an easy 500 points.
