November 4, 2025 — On a bustling night at Sydney Airport, passengers prepared to board Hawaiian Airlines flight HA452 to Honolulu. Among them, some opted for the airline’s Extra Comfort class, a $175 upgrade that promises enhanced amenities and comfort. As the flight departed at 9:40 PM, travelers settled in for the nine-hour journey across the Pacific.
The decision to upgrade was driven by the desire for a more comfortable overnight experience. Hawaiian Airlines operates this route five times weekly, providing ample opportunity for travelers to connect to other Hawaiian islands upon arrival. The flight, aboard an Airbus A330, arrived slightly ahead of schedule, despite a brief delay at the gate.
Checking In and Boarding
The check-in process proved slightly more eventful than expected when two passengers were assigned the same seat. However, the situation was quickly resolved by the airline’s friendly staff, setting a positive tone for the journey. Boarding was smooth, and passengers in Extra Comfort were greeted with a welcoming atmosphere.
The Extra Comfort Experience
The Extra Comfort section, located just behind the business class cabin, features a 2-4-2 seating configuration. With a seat pitch of 36 inches, passengers enjoy five more inches of legroom compared to standard economy. This additional space, coupled with an aisle seat and two empty seats nearby, made for a notably comfortable flight.
Passengers were provided with a pastel green blanket and a cushion adorned with a delicate fern print. An amenities kit from Noho Home included essentials such as an eye mask, toothbrush, and earplugs. The presence of a USB port for device charging added to the convenience, while the cooler cabin temperature was offset by the availability of extra blankets.
Baggage and Loyalty Program
Extra Comfort passengers benefit from the same baggage allowance as economy class, with the option to add a second checked bag for a fee. Hawaiian Airlines’ recent transition to the Atmos Rewards program, in partnership with Alaska Airlines, marks a significant change in their loyalty offerings. The airline is also set to join the oneworld Alliance in 2026, expanding its network and benefits for frequent flyers.
Entertainment and Service
The in-flight entertainment system offers a diverse selection of movies, music, and TV shows, including films set in Hawaii to enhance the travel experience. The introduction of Starlink internet provides a seamless and reliable connection, allowing passengers to stay connected without the hassle of logins.
Flight attendants, dressed in vibrant floral prints, delivered exceptional service throughout the flight. Two meal services were provided, ensuring passengers could rest between meals. The crew’s regular rounds to offer water and collect trash contributed to a pleasant journey.
Culinary Offerings and Sustainability
The first meal service included a chicken and lettuce sandwich and a pineapple-shaped cookie, while the second service offered a choice between an egg frittata or waffles. Hawaiian Airlines’ commitment to sustainability is evident in their goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and their efforts to reduce single-use plastics by 2029.
“Flying Hawaiian Airlines feels like your holiday starts the second you step on the plane, and the added leg room in Extra Comfort is totally worth it on an overnight flight.”
Pricing and Future Developments
With standard economy seats starting at approximately $850 return, the Extra Comfort upgrade represents a valuable investment for those seeking additional comfort. Hawaiian Airlines plans to enhance their offerings further with the opening of a new premium lounge at Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in late 2027.
The writer flew as a guest of Hawaiian Airlines. For more information, visit hawaiianairlines.com.
