Jetting off to paradise with Hawaiian Airlines? Consider upgrading your experience with a bid for upgrade. This strategic move can elevate your journey, unlocking exclusive perks and a more comfortable flight.

How Does It Work?
Hawaiian Airlines offers two upgrade options:
- Complimentary Upgrade: No additional cost if eligible based on status, elite tier, or other factors.
- Bid for Upgrade: Submit a monetary bid to purchase an upgrade to First Class or Extra Comfort.
Pros and Cons of Bidding for an Upgrade
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Potential to upgrade for a lower cost than purchasing directly | Bid may not be accepted |
Increased comfort and amenities | Time-consuming process |
Enhanced travel experience | Limited availability |
How to Bid for an Upgrade
- Check Eligibility: Determine if you’re eligible based on fare class, ticket type, and status tiers.
- Submit a Bid: Choose the flight and cabin you’d like to upgrade to, then enter your bid amount.
- Await Notification: Hawaiian Airlines will notify you if your bid is accepted or denied.
Factors Affecting Bid Acceptance
- Fare Class: Higher fare classes have higher upgrade priority.
- Elite Status: Elite members receive bonus upgrade priority.
- Bid Amount: The higher your bid, the more likely it will be accepted.
- Flight Availability: Upgrades are more likely to be approved for less crowded flights.
Case Study: Bid Results for Selected Flights
Flight from Honolulu to Los Angeles (HNL to LAX)
Fare Class | Upgrade Bid | Acceptance Rate |
---|---|---|
Economy | $250 | 50% |
Comfort Plus | $300 | 75% |
First Class | $450 | 100% |
Flight from Boston to Maui (BOS to OGG)
Fare Class | Upgrade Bid | Acceptance Rate |
---|---|---|
Economy | $300 | 40% |
Comfort Plus | $400 | 60% |
First Class | $550 | 80% |
FAQs
-
Can I bid on multiple flights at once?
– Yes, you can submit bids for multiple flights in the same transaction. -
What happens if my bid is denied?
– You will not be charged for the bid, and you will remain in your original seat. -
When will I know if my bid was accepted?
– Notifications are typically sent within 72 hours of bid submission. -
Can I cancel my bid after submitting it?
– No, once a bid is submitted, it cannot be canceled. -
Can I use miles to bid for an upgrade?
– No, Hawaiian Airlines does not allow miles to be used for upgrades. -
Is there a limit to how many bids I can submit?
– No, there is no limit to the number of bids you can submit.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Hawaiian Airlines experience through a bid can provide significant benefits at a potentially reduced cost. By understanding the process, factors, and potential outcomes, you can optimize your chances of securing an upgrade and enhance your journey to paradise.