Alaska Airlines announces completion of Hawaiian Airlines purchase

Sept. 18 (UPI) -- Alaska Airlines announced on Wednesday that it has completed its $1.9 billion purchase of Hawaiian Airlines, giving it access to 29 international markets over 141 new destinations.

The carrier said both airlines will start work to secure a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, which will allow it to perform as a single carrier with an integrated passenger service system.

Both airlines will maintain their names despite the transaction.

"This is a historic day for Alaska Airlines as we officially join with Hawaiian Airlines," Alaska Air Group CEO Ben Minicucci said. "Alaska and Hawaiian share tremendous pride in connecting communities with award-winning service, and we look forward to inviting more guests on board to experience what makes both brands unique."

Seattle and Honolulu will become the new airline's largest hubs with other hubs located in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Anchorage and Protland, Ore. The two airlines will offer 1,500 daily flights in the Americas, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific.

"The combined airline will continue to advance regenerative tourism, Hawaiian language, and culture in the Hawaiian Islands by building upon Hawaiian Airlines' and Alaska Airlines' existing programs."

The sale passed a review by the Justice Department last month. It marks the largest merger of U.S.-based airlines since Alaska Airlines merged with Virgin American in 2016. It also becomes the fifth largest airline in the country.