Delta Restores Boston-Honolulu Flights, Expands Hawaii Network for Winter 2026
Good news for New England travelers dreaming of Hawaiian beaches! Delta Air Lines is bringing back its nonstop service between Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) this December. The route, which will operate daily during peak holiday travel and four times weekly throughout the winter season, returns after being suspended in 2025.
A Second Chance for Direct Flights
Last year, Bostonians lost direct flight options to Hawaii when both Delta and Hawaiian Airlines cancelled their routes. Delta previously operated the Boston-Honolulu route between 2024 and early 2025, while Hawaiian Airlines discontinued its service in August due to underperformance. Now, Delta is stepping in to fill the void, reclaiming the title of America’s longest domestic flight.
More Than Just Boston: MSP to Maui
The airline’s Hawaii expansion doesn’t stop there. Delta is also launching a brand-new nonstop route between Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui. This service will operate daily during peak periods and five times weekly during the core winter season.
Aircraft and Comfort
Both the Boston-Honolulu and Minneapolis-Maui routes will be serviced by the Airbus A330-300 aircraft. Passengers can expect the following cabin configurations:
- 34 lie-flat Delta One seats
- 21 Delta Premium Select (premium economy) recliners
- 24 extra-legroom Comfort+ seats
- 203 seats in the main cabin
Expanded Hawaii Service Across the Network
Beyond these two key routes, Delta is bolstering its Hawaii service with increased frequency from several hubs, including:
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
- New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
service from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Kona International Airport (KOA) will begin earlier this fall, and flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to KOA will be upgraded to Boeing 767-300s for the winter season.
What Which means for Travelers
The return of these routes and the expansion of Delta’s Hawaii network provide travelers with more convenient options for reaching the islands. The increased capacity and aircraft upgrades also promise a more comfortable travel experience. The timing of the launch, just before the Christmas holiday, is particularly advantageous for those planning winter getaways.
FAQ
Q: When do the new flights start?
A: Both the Boston-Honolulu and Minneapolis-Maui flights launch on December 19, 2026.
Q: What type of aircraft will be used?
A: Airbus A330-300s will operate both routes.
Q: Will the Boston-Honolulu flight operate daily?
A: Yes, it will operate daily during peak late-December travel, then transition to four times weekly.
Q: What other Hawaii routes are being expanded?
A: Delta is adding flights from Atlanta, Detroit, and New York, as well as upgrading aircraft on routes from Los Angeles and Salt Lake City.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Delta’s website for award space availability. Booking early can increase your chances of securing a seat, especially during peak travel times.
Ready to start planning your Hawaiian escape? Explore Delta’s website for flight schedules and booking information. Share your travel plans in the comments below!
