June 17, 2025 — Sydney, Australia / Honolulu, Hawaii:
Australian travelers dreaming of Hawaiian getaways can now turn their loyalty points into tropical escapes. Qantas Airways, Australia’s national carrier, has officially expanded its Frequent Flyer program through a new partnership with Hawaiian Airlines, allowing members to redeem reward seats across Hawaiian’s entire global flight network, starting June 5, 2025.
The move is part of a broader strategic alliance between the two airlines, which was first unveiled in January 2025. The partnership is expected to significantly enhance redemption opportunities for Qantas loyalty members and increase travel connectivity between Australia, Hawaii, and the U.S. mainland.
Qantas Points Now Usable on Hawaiian’s Extensive Route Network
Under the new agreement, Qantas Frequent Flyer members can now use their Qantas Points to book Classic Reward seats on Hawaiian Airlines, which operates flights between all four major Hawaiian Islands—Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii (Big Island)—as well as to 15 U.S. mainland cities and 10 international destinations.
In addition, Qantas passengers traveling on Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights carrying a QF flight number will earn Qantas Points and Status Credits, further integrating Hawaiian into Qantas’ loyalty ecosystem.
The partnership also builds upon Hawaiian Airlines’ enhanced U.S.–Australasia presence following its acquisition by Alaska Airlines in September 2024. The merged carrier now offers nonstop flights to Honolulu (HNL) from Sydney (SYD) and Auckland (AKL), alongside convenient same-day connections to major U.S. cities including Los Angeles (LAX), Las Vegas (LAS), Salt Lake City (SLC), and San Francisco (SFO).
Strengthening Transpacific Connectivity
Qantas has also boosted its own transpacific offerings, recently launching a nonstop Melbourne (MEL) to Honolulu service in May 2025, which complements its existing Sydney to Honolulu route. This expanded network gives Australian travelers more options to access Hawaii directly or as a stopover en route to North America.
Andrew Glance, CEO of Qantas Loyalty, welcomed the new partnership, stating:
“We know Hawaii is one of the most sought-after destinations for our Frequent Flyers, and this partnership with Hawaiian Airlines is great news for members planning their next international holiday. It offers more flexibility, more destinations, and more ways to use Qantas Points.”
He also emphasized the added value of integrating Hawaii into broader travel itineraries:
“Whether it’s a direct escape to Honolulu or a tropical stopover en route to the mainland U.S., this agreement significantly enhances the scope of what our loyalty members can do with their points.”
Reward Booking Demand Surges
The addition of Hawaiian Airlines comes as Qantas Frequent Flyer redemptions are at an all-time high. According to the airline, members now book more than 17,000 reward seats per day, a figure that has doubled since 2020.
Additionally, the number of Classic Reward redemptions on partner airlines has surged over the last five years, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a diverse and flexible loyalty network. The Hawaiian Airlines partnership fits squarely within Qantas’ strategy to expand its redemption ecosystem through exclusive agreements.
Future Plans with oneworld Alliance
Though Hawaiian Airlines is not currently part of the oneworld global alliance, the airline is expected to officially join in 2026, alongside its parent company Alaska Airlines. This will mark Hawaiian as the third U.S. member of the alliance, joining American Airlines and Alaska, and will further integrate the airline into the global loyalty and route network shared by oneworld carriers.
This future integration will benefit Qantas Frequent Flyers by offering reciprocal elite perks, such as lounge access, preferred seating, and baggage allowance across more routes operated by Hawaiian Airlines and its partners.
Aloha Spirit Meets Aussie Loyalty
Alex Judson, Managing Director of Partnerships and International at Hawaiian and Alaska Airlines, celebrated the new collaboration with Qantas:
“Hawaiian Airlines has served Australia for over 21 years, and we’re proud to bring our authentic Hawaiian hospitality to even more Australians. Through this partnership, Qantas Frequent Flyers will enjoy unparalleled value and convenience when redeeming their points for travel with us.”
He added that the partnership will offer seamless access to Hawaii’s unique culture, landscapes, and onboard experiences, making it easier than ever for Australians and New Zealanders to start their holidays the moment they board.
Summary of Key Benefits
- Qantas Points can now be redeemed on Hawaiian Airlines flights, effective June 5, 2025
- Access to all four major Hawaiian Islands and 15 U.S. cities including New York, San Diego, Seattle, and Las Vegas
- Qantas customers earn Status Credits and Points on Hawaiian-operated flights with QF flight numbers
- Hawaiian Airlines is expected to join the oneworld alliance in 2026
- New Qantas Melbourne–Honolulu service complements growing demand
- Integration part of Qantas’ long-term strategy to expand international loyalty benefits
Conclusion
The Qantas–Hawaiian Airlines reward seat partnership brings a wave of new opportunities for Qantas Frequent Flyers. As travel continues to rebound across the Pacific, this strategic collaboration offers greater flexibility, connectivity, and reward value—especially for those dreaming of a Hawaiian escape or a seamless route to the U.S.
For travelers planning their next international journey, redeeming Qantas Points for Hawaiian Airlines flights opens a broader world of travel experiences enriched by warm island hospitality and global connectivity.
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