One Of The Best US Airlines For A Premium First Class Experience On Your Way To Paradise

A dream vacation to the island paradise of Hawaii calls for the height of luxury. Every moment should be stress-free and memorable. For this mega bucket-list item, some might consider the extra splurge on a first-class ticket almost mandatory, and there is no better way to go than on one of Hawaiian Airlines' (HA) Airbus 330 fleet of planes, which are available for both domestic and international flights.

This premium ticket comes with premium service. You'll qualify for priority screening and boarding, lounge access, free seat selection, and two free checked bags. Your vacation starts as soon as you step foot onto the aircraft. Once at your seat, you'll be offered a welcome drink. The HA first-class island-inspired experience immerses you into Hawaiian culture and will make you feel like you're at your destination even before taking off. The cabin is awash in a soft, sandy color that is relaxing for the eyes, with pops of blue to remind you of the ocean. You'll be attended to by a friendly crew who offers a personalized service to each first-class passenger. It's one of the best first class experiences you'll get on a domestic flight.

There are a total of 18 seats in the Hawaiian Airlines first-class cabin, lined up in three rows with two lie-flat seats in each row. First-class customers on select long-haul flights will receive posh amenities kits featuring sustainably-made products, with a few additional amenities in the first class lavatory. If you are on a longer flight, the cabin crew will come around with an intimate meal service featuring island-inspired cuisine made by award-winning chefs. When onboard, don't be alarmed by the lack of seatback screens, as you'll be given a 10.9-inch iPad and over-ear headphones for your in-flight entertainment. In another step toward the unusual, HA does not offer in-flight Wi-Fi so that you can go into full relaxation mode in anticipation of your perfect Hawaiian island vacation.

Prices for these seats start at a little under $1,000 and can go up to more than as $5,000, as of 2023. If you didn't snag a first class ticket at the time of booking but are now in the mood to go all out, do not despair. HA offers a "bid up" program where passengers can practice perfect timing and bid for an upgrade request on select, eligible flights. It's a bit different from other airlines because, instead of upgrading for a fixed dollar amount, you bid as much money as you're willing to spend on the upgrade, and your bid must be approved by the airline before your new booking is confirmed. Either way, this experience will be a splurge, but one that is well worth it to set immaculate vibes for your trip to paradise.