Hawaiian Airlines to replace free main cabin meals with pre-order menu July 1

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Starting July 1, Hawaiian Airlines will no longer serve free meals to main cabin passengers on most flights between Hawai‘i and the U.S. continent.

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Instead, main cabin guests will be able purchase meals from a new pre-order menu.

Hawaiian Airlines said the new program is aimed at giving travelers more control and more options, including plant-based and gluten-free selections.

“It’s really in response to our guests asking us for more choice, more food options,” said Alisa Onishi, Hawaiian Airlines’ managing director of Hawai‘i marketing.

Travelers can pre-order meals up to two weeks in advance and as close as 20 hours before departure through the airline’s website or the Alaska Hawaiian mobile app.

“You do have to pre-order these options to get them served to you fresh on board. They’re made within 12 hours of your flight,” she said.

The airline developed the menu with Maui-based chef Sheldon Simeon, a James Beard Award finalist and the restaurateur behind Tin Roof and Tiffany’s.

Simeon called it a “pinch-me” moment. “I’m completely honored,” he said. “As a boy growing up in Hilo, cooking with my family and my parents and going culinary school, I’ve been on a couple crazy shows. I never really imagined that I’d be a featured chef here in the main cabin.”

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Breakfast options include coconut overnight oats ($10.99), corned beef hash and eggs, and banana pancakes ($15.99 each).

“Those baked goods in the morning? Comfort. This is all hugs as you’re eating this. That’s what we’re trying to envision as you’re eating this,” Simeon said.

Afternoon and evening options include an Italian sub with mac salad ($12.49​) and crispy mochiko chicken and garlic noodles ($16.99).

Hawaiian Airlines is also adding new complimentary snack partners, including Anahola Granola and Diamond Bakery, and will continue complimentary onboard touches, such as a welcome beverage and a sweet treat served before arrival.

The airline also announced a one-time promotion for Hawai‘i residents who are Huakaʻi by Hawaiian members — or who sign up by June 24 — to try the new program at launch.

Starting July 1, Huakaʻi members who make a meal selection for an upcoming trip will automatically receive the first two items free of charge.

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