As a seasoned traveler with several Hawaiian Airlines flights under my belt, I decided it was time to explore what makes Southwest Airlines a favorite for many. My journey from Honolulu to Lihue marked my first encounter with Southwest, and it came at a pivotal time.
The airline has announced significant changes slated for 2025, including assigned seating, premium options, and a redesigned boarding process. Naturally, I needed to experience their current service to fully appreciate the upcoming changes.
Airport Experience:
Navigating through Honolulu International Airport, which ranks near the bottom in the JD Power Rankings for large airports, I ventured through the open walkways, pleasant on this crystal clear day, though opinions vary on their comfort during humid weather. Along the way, the serene Japanese garden, along with its nearby Hawaiian and Chinese counterparts, provided a tranquil escape before my flight.
Boarding and First Impressions:
Southwest operates out of Terminal 2, and despite a smaller setup at Lobby 6, the check-in process was seamless thanks to the app. The boarding was surprisingly smooth for my first Southwest flight, landing me in seat 26A, behind the wing—a prime spot for capturing takeoff and landing on this 737 Max 8, which boasted the fresh scent of a new aircraft and more legroom than its counterparts.
In-Flight Experience:
Once airborne, the flight offered a limited service of beverages, sticking to water and warm cran-apple juice for this short hop. The approach was smooth, with the aircraft’s large windows providing stunning views of Lihue as we descended. Notably, unlike Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest had the window shades down during takeoff—a curious difference that piqued my interest.
Landing and Final Thoughts:
The landing in Lihue was a bit bumpy but didn’t detract from the overall positive experience. I wrapped up my journey planning to capture more of Lihue Airport in a forthcoming guide video. This flight not only allowed me to witness the current state of Southwest’s service but also set the stage for future comparisons post-2025 changes.
Stay tuned for more travel insights and airport guides. If we don’t meet in the terminal, I’ll see you, in the lobby
I love how you shared your experience with Southwest Airlines, especially at such a pivotal time with all the upcoming changes. It’s great to hear a seasoned traveler’s perspective, and I’m really curious to see how these updates in 2025 will transform their service. Thanks for this thoughtful post!
Thanks for sharing your experience with Southwest Airlines! It’s interesting to see how they are evolving, especially with those upcoming changes. How did the current service compare to what you’ve experienced with Hawaiian Airlines? Any standout moments or surprises during your flight?