Save money on your next flight
Skyscanner is the world’s leading flight search engine, helping you find the cheapest flights to destinations all over the world.
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii on United Airlines, you may be wondering what type of planes they use for these flights. With its tropical beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich culture, Hawaii remains one of the most popular vacation destinations for travelers from the U.S. mainland.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: United primarily uses Boeing 737, 757, 767, 777, and 787 Dreamliner on its Hawaii routes.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the aircraft United Airlines uses to whisk travelers away to the Hawaiian Islands, including seat configs, amenities, routes, and more.
The Main Aircraft United Flies to Hawaii
Boeing 737
The Boeing 737 is one of the most common narrow-body aircraft in United’s fleet.
There are a few variants of the 737 that operate flights to Hawaii, including the 737-700, 737-800, and 737-Max 8. These aircraft typically have between 130 and 180 seats in a 3-class configuration.
The 737s excel on shorter routes between the mainland and Hawaii, like from California or Las Vegas. Passengers appreciate the 2-3-2 seating in economy providing more room.
Boeing 757
United utilizes the mid-size Boeing 757 on select Hawaii routes as well. The 757-200 model offers ample performance capabilities necessary for the long über-water segments to Hawaii.
With around 200 seats, the 757 allows United to tailor capacity to demand on less dense routes.
The 757 features a 2-3 seating layout in coach, and lie-flat beds in business class on pau hana services. Flights from Denver, Chicago, Houston and Newark to Hawaii see regular 757 operations.
Boeing 767
The Boeing 767-300 is a twin-engine widebody jet frequently used by United on Hawaii flights. It typically seats around 210 passengers.
The 767’s extended range capabilities, spacious cabin, and cargo capacity make it an ideal aircraft for island-hopping routes inter-island routes.
United configures the economy cabin in a less dense 2-3-2 layout, while business class features lie-flat pods. Popular routes linking Chicago, Washington D.C. and Los Angeles to Honolulu commonly use 767s.
Boeing 777
United flies both the Boeing 777-200 and 777-300 aircraft to Hawaii. These long-range, twin aisle jets are ideal for long hauls from the mainland U.S. and international destinations into Hawaii.
For example, United operates a daily nonstop between New York/Newark and Honolulu using a 777-200 with 364 seats.
On flights to Hawaii, United configures the 777-300 model in a more spacious 3-class layout carrying just 299 passengers. The 777 boats an ultramodern cabin and inflight amenities for a relaxing trip.
Boeing 787 Dreamliner
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner is United’s most technologically advanced aircraft servicing Hawaii. composite airframe paired with new generation GEnx engines make the aircraft extremely fuel efficient.
United primarily uses the 787-8 model to Hawaii with 36 lie-flat business class seats and 154 standard economy seats.
Select routes from Los Angeles, Houston, Denver and San Francisco to Hawaii see daily Dreamliner service. The 787’s pressurization system, dimmable windows and smooth ride minimize jetlag’s effects for arrivals into Hawaii feeling refreshed.
Seating and Amenities on United’s Hawaii Flights
First Class
United offers lie-flat seats with 6’6″ of bed length in First Class on its Hawaii flights. These premium seats provide ample personal space and comfort for the long journeys to the islands.
First Class passengers can enjoy premium in-flight entertainment on large touchscreen monitors, inflight WiFi, noise-canceling headphones, and onboard power outlets at every seat.
First Class passengers are treated to premium dining with appetizers, salads, entrées, and desserts served on demand during the flight. Flight attendants provide white table linens and glassware to create a fine dining experience.
First Class fliers also receive luxury amenity kits from brands like Polo Ralph Lauren.
Economy Plus
For extra legroom at an affordable price, United offers Economy Plus seats on flights to Hawaii. These seats offer up to 5-6 inches of extra legroom compared to standard Economy seating.
Economy Plus passengers can enjoy complimentary premium beverages and the standard complimentary food and beverage service.
Economy Plus seats feature adjustable headrests and personal in-flight entertainment screens.
Passengers can stay connected with inflight WiFi available for purchase. Power outlets are available to keep devices charged on the long haul to Hawaii.
Main Cabin Economy
United’s Main Cabin Economy seats provide a comfortable option for budget-focused travelers headed to the Aloha State. Main Cabin Economy seats feature adjustable headrests and personal seatback entertainment systems.
Complimentary food and beverages are served on Hawaii-bound flights exceeding 3.5 hours.
Travelers can choose from options like fruit and cheese plates, hot breakfasts, or even a signature Pau Hāna snack mix on afternoon departures from Hawaii.
United provides complimentary soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, beer, wine, and spirits in Economy Class.
United’s Hawaii Flight Routes and Schedules
Nonstop Routes from Mainland Hubs
United offers a variety of nonstop flights to Hawaii from its mainland hub airports in Houston, Denver, Chicago, Washington D.C., Newark, and San Francisco.
These direct flights depart daily and provide the fastest way to get to the islands. Some of United’s most popular nonstop routes include:
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Honolulu (HNL)
- Houston (IAH) to Honolulu (HNL)
- Newark (EWR) to Honolulu (HNL)
- Denver (DEN) to Maui (OGG)
Connecting Flights Through SFO and LAX
In addition to nonstop flights, United offers a variety of connecting flight options through its hubs in San Francisco (SFO) and Los Angeles (LAX). These connections provide more flexibility for travelers departing from other mainland cities.
Some routes require just one stop, while others may have two stops along the way.
According to United’s website, popular connecting routes through SFO include flights from Seattle, Portland, Sacramento and San Diego.
Out of LAX, many connections come from cities across the Southwest like Phoenix, Las Vegas and San Antonio.
Seasonal Differences in Flight Frequency
The number of United flights to Hawaii can vary by season. Generally, late spring and summer see the greatest number of departures to handle peak tourism demand. For example, United may offer multiple daily nonstops between Chicago and Maui in July and August.
In comparison, flight frequencies drop in fall and early winter as tourism declines. A route that had three daily flights in June may only operate several times per week in September. However, even in slower months, travelers can typically find at least one daily nonstop from United’s hubs to popular Hawaiian destinations.
Maximizing Comfort and Enjoyment on Your United Hawaii Flight
Choosing the Best Seats
When booking your flight to Hawaii on United, take time to explore the seat options and choose those that will maximize your comfort and experience.
Window seats allow you to gaze out at breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and islands during the flight, while aisle seats provide easy access to the lavatory and flight attendants.
Consider paying extra for United’s Economy Plus seats, which offer around 5-7 inches of additional legroom. These are especially worthwhile for longer flights from the mainland U.S.
Other desirable seats on United’s 777s and 787s used for Hawaii routes include row 17 where there is more underseat storage space, and exit rows offering ample legroom.
Use SeatGuru and United’s seat maps to find and request seats with features important to you.
Inflight Entertainment and WiFi
Make the hours pass quickly by taking advantage of excellent in-flight entertainment options. United offers hundreds of movies, TV shows, games, and music channels on seatback screens or your device through United WiFi.
Premium options like first-run Hollywood movies are free in first and business class and reasonably priced in economy.
Inflight WiFi starts at $4.99 on flights to Hawaii if purchased before departure. Surf the web, chat on social apps, or stream movies onto your device. While speeds may not match your home network, connectivity is usually decent enough for light browsing and messaging.
WiFi can make your long leg to Hawaii truly fly by!
Food and Beverages
United offers tasty complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages in all classes on Hawaii flights exceeding 1,800 miles.
In first class, expect a restaurant-quality meal like a fresh fruit and cheese plate followed by seared chicken with roasted vegetables.
Main cabin meals feature Hawaiian-inspired dishes like ginger chicken or a portobello mushroom sandwich. Premium cabin flyers and Premier members can preorder meal choices up to five days before departure.
Bring your own empty water bottle onboard to stay hydrated with United’s chilled water service at no charge. Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and adult beverages are complimentary in first/business class and available for purchase in economy.
With pre-orders, special meals, busier flight attendants on meal services, consider using the lavatory before meals to avoid long lines.
Also read: How Is The Flight To Hawaii?
Booking Tips for United Hawaii Flights
Booking a flight to Hawaii on United Airlines requires some strategic planning to get the best fares.
Here are some handy tips for finding and booking great deals on United flights to the Hawaiian Islands:
Book Early
Booking your United flight to Hawaii as early as possible, ideally 4-6 months in advance, will unlock the lowest fares. As departure dates approach, fares tend to gradually increase.
United frequently offers sales on Hawaii flights up to 11 months in advance, so check back often when planning your trip.
Be Flexible on Dates and Times
If your schedule allows, consider traveling a day earlier or later as prices can vary significantly depending on departure dates.
Flights midweek are generally cheaper than peak weekend departures. Red-eye flights are usually the most budget-friendly options.
Use Miles for Free Flights
One of the best ways to score free or heavily discounted flights to Hawaii is by using your United MileagePlus miles. Rates start around 35,000 roundtrip miles. Sign up for a United MileagePlus credit card to start racking up miles for an award flight.
Check Partner Fares
United offers special fares when combining a United flight with a partner airline such as ANA or Air Canada. Checking for partner fares can unlock lower pricing. Use United’s online booking portal and explore these options.
Watch for Sales
United runs regular sales and promotions on flights across its network. Sign up for email alerts and keep an eye out for deals like “30% Off Hawaii Flights” or “Fly to Hawaii for $399 Roundtrip”.
These limited-time sales can equal massive savings if you can be flexible and jump on them fast.
Following these tips can lead to scoring exceptional deals on United Airlines flights to idyllic Hawaii.
With a spectacular blend of stunning landscapes, world-class beaches and vibrant culture, Hawaii promises an unforgettable vacation no matter which island you choose. Safe travels!
Also read: Unpacking the Mystery of Cheap Flights to Hawaii: Why Paradise is More Affordable Than You Think
Conclusion
We hope this guide has helped answer your question about what type of planes United uses to whisk travelers off to sunny, tropical Hawaii.
With a diverse fleet that includes various Boeing twin-jet aircraft, United is well-equipped to handle the high travel demand between mainland airports and the Hawaiian Islands all year round.
Where you end up sitting on your United flight to Hawaii can have a big impact on your overall comfort and enjoyment during the long journey over the Pacific. So be sure to select seats and cabins wisely when booking your next island getaway!
