American Airlines Resuming Chicago Honolulu Flight

Intro

American Airlines has long had a decent footprint in the ultra-competitive Hawaii market. Serving Honolulu twice daily from Dallas Fort Worth with widebodies, twice daily from Phoenix (1x widebody), and 3x daily from LAX, they will soon be resuming one more route to the biggest city in Hawaii.

The Details

American Airlines Chicago to Honolulu route has long had complications. The service between the cities used to be run by both United and American before AA decided to pull out in September of 2021. United currently operates a 787-10 on this route, featuring 3 cabins of service and a whopping 44 business class seats.

Well, as of October 26th, 2025, American Airlines will be resuming daily service between Chicago (ORD) and Honolulu using a 787-8. This aircraft features 20 business class seats, 28 premium economy seats, and 186 economy seats.

American Airlines 787-8s feature two versions of Business Class

While the flight is currently not on sale yet, I would imagine that the outbound from Chicago would leave sometime in the morning, and the return from Honolulu would be the classic Hawaii redeye.

This Is A Good Option

For the past few years, United has monopolized this market due to being the only carrier flying nonstop between the two. Fares have been quite expensive, especially business class, where it is rare to find Roundtrip tickets for under 4.5K. With American entering the market, this is going to provide good competition on this route, hopefully driving the prices down a touch.

Additionally, American Airlines offers flagship lounge access for those flying on a widebody to Hawaii, unlike United. While I understand why United doesn't allow this, it's always a nice touch to sip on some Piper Heidsieck before boarding your flight to Hawaii.

American Airlines Flagship Lounge Miami

Final Thoughts

If you have plans this winter break to head off from the snowy and cold Chicago to Honolulu, you'll be happy to know that United isn't your only option anymore. American Airlines has decided to resume daily service on a 787-8 from ORD-HNL as of October 26th, 2025.