The 787-9 is fuel efficient and lightweight, featuring a spacious wide-body cabin with extra-large windows. Passengers love this aircraft due to its improved cabin atmosphere, larger overhead bins and dimmable LED window shades.

As of now, Hawaiian Airlines says it plans to use the new aircraft on long-haul Asia/Pacific and North America routes. There have been hopes that Hawaiian might launch flights to Europe, which the Dreamliner would be ideal for due to its long range, but so far this remains a rumour. 

Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram, said:

“The Dreamliner combines excellent comfort for our guests with fantastic operational performance and will allow us to continue modernizing our fleet into the next decade. It has more seating capacity than Hawaiian’s current wide-body fleet, which will allow us to further build upon our successful growth in Asia.”

Hawaiian currently operates a flee of 54 aircraft, including 24 Airbus A330-200s, 8 Boeing 767 wide-body aircraft, 2 A321neos and 20 717 narrow-body aircraft. The company selected the 787-9 as part of a competitive bid process that also included the Airbus A330-900.

“We were in the enviable position of choosing between two outstanding models for our flagship aircraft of the future and I couldn’t be more excited about the prospect of adding the Dreamliner to Hawaiian’s fleet,” remarked Ingram.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister, said:

“Hawaiian Airlines has been on an impressive growth trajectory, continuously expanding service between Asia and North America. It’s why we are thrilled they’ve chosen to reach their next horizon with the 787 Dreamliner. The Dreamliner’s advanced technology, unmatched fuel efficiency, and passenger-pleasing cabin will help Hawaiian optimize its fleet for the future and provide their customers with a best-in-class experience.” 

Cabin configurations and business class seating arrangements have yet to be announced, so it will be interesting to see if Hawaiian launches a new product. The airline is close to finishing installation of Pltrona Frau lie-flat seats on its A330s, which convert into 20.5 inch-wide beds.