Kapuahi: The New Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

Hawaiian Airlines celebrated a historic milestone in its 94-year journey, launching the inaugural flight of its newest flagship aircraft, the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The aircraft, designated N781NA and named Kapuahi—known as Aldebaran in Western astronomy—took off from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, bound for San Francisco.

Passengers aboard this special flight were warmly welcomed with traditional fresh lei and entertained by the Hawaiian Airlines Serenaders, who brought the spirit of the islands to life with live music and hula.

Following its formal blessing ceremony in Honolulu this past February, Kapuahi is now set to fly Hawaiian Airlines’ nonstop daily route between Honolulu and San Francisco until May 14. After that, it will be joined by the carrier’s second Boeing 787-9, N780NA, to begin dedicated service between Honolulu and Los Angeles (HA2/3) starting May 14, followed by Honolulu-Phoenix flights commencing on May 15.

Stepping aboard Hawaiian Airlines’ 787-9, guests are immediately surrounded by an island-inspired ambiance, where the cabin’s design reflects the natural beauty of Hawaiʻi through thoughtful details in form, texture, and gentle lighting that mimics sunrise and sunset.

The aircraft boasts 34 Leihōkū (garland of stars) Suites, each offering lie-flat seating, an 18-inch entertainment screen, personal power outlets, wireless phone charging, and direct aisle access. Arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration with enclosed doors, the suites cater to both privacy seekers and those looking for a shared experience. Couples can enjoy the option of combining double suites, drifting off to sleep under a starlit ceiling inspired by the celestial navigation used by early Polynesian voyagers.

Hawaiian Airlines’ 787-9 Main Cabin is designed for comfort and efficiency, featuring 266 Collins Aerospace Aspire seats. These seats are thoughtfully crafted with ergonomically contoured backrests and armrests, enhancing space and ensuring more shoulder and hip room for passengers. Each seat is equipped with a 12-inch seatback monitor and convenient USB-A and USB-C charging ports.

For those seeking additional space, the cabin also includes 79 Extra Comfort seats, providing extra legroom along with access to AC power outlets, offering an upgraded experience for travelers who want a little more room to relax.

 

Reference

  1. Hawaiian Airlines. (April 15, 2024). Hawaiian Airlines’ New Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner Welcomes First Guests. Hawaiian Airlines. https://newsroom.hawaiianairlines.com/releases/releases-20240416