Virgin America to Launch Hawaii Flights

After 20 years working in the travel industry, and 15 years writing about it, Tim Winship knows a thing or two about travel. Follow him on Twitter @twinship.

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In a surprise to no one, Virgin America today announced that it will begin flying to Hawaii later this year.

Daily roundtrips between San Francisco and Honolulu will begin on November 2; San Francisco – Maui flights launch on December 3.

The flights will be operated with new A320 aircraft on order from Airbus.

According to Virgin America’s press release, Hawaii was identified as the “most wanted” new destination by members of the airline’s Elevate mileage program. And indeed, the airline expressly identifies the new services as award opportunities for Elevate members. “As one of the most popular leisure destinations among Bay Area travelers, we are pleased to announce our new nonstop service to Hawaii. This marks the next phase of growth for our airline, as we take delivery of new Airbus aircraft and expand our Elevate program with more world-class rewards destinations.”

Whether they’re paid for with Elevate points or cash, the new flights will be welcomed by many as a refreshing alternative to the services of Delta and United.

Reader Reality Check

Aloha?

This article originally appeared on FrequentFlier.com.

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