Apartment 1929 was Hawaiian’s most exclusive lounge to date, featuring an intimate setting with indoor and outdoor seating, shower facilities, and a pre-ordered dining menu with cocktails curated by Bar Leather Apron, a James Beard Award-winning bar in Honolulu. Access was restricted to passengers booking the premium airport service, which started at $500 per couple. The service also offered escort/car service to and from the plane, curbside greeting at HNL, priority escort TSA in Honolulu, and baggage transfer to your Honolulu hotel.

Hawaiian/Alaska has said it will sunset the service to focus on an enhanced lounge strategy developed in collaboration with new owner Alaska Air Group. However, with the new lounge not expected to open until 2027, premium travelers may face limited options in the meantime.

Unlike airlines specializing in high-end ground services, Hawaiian has never been known for luxury-focused airport offerings like this. Even before this service launched, many, including us, questioned whether a high-priced, concierge-style experience aligned with the airline’s brand.

Many felt that Hawaiian should have invested in improving its existing lounges rather than introducing an ultra-exclusive option. That now appears to be the re-direction. Brandon wrote: “Weak, especially for that price! How about they worry and upgrade their already existing weak lounges?” Drew808 agreed: “For all the money HA likely invested in this lounge, it seems a bit of a waste. They could have freshened up their existing lounges for a fraction of the cost.”

One likely factor is low demand. The pricing structure and limited time allowed in the lounge made it difficult for many travelers to justify. Mark R wrote: “Unless I am missing something, this is $500 for one hour, correct? You can’t enter until two hours before departure, the plane boards at least 30 minutes prior to departure, and it would require you in most cases to head out at least 15 minutes before boarding time.” (Editors note: lounge access was 2 hours before departure).

Another key factor is undoubtedly the merger with Alaska Airlines. Hawaiian Airlines is being integrated into Alaska’s business model, and Alaska does not currently offer a similar VIP airport service. Alaska has built its brand around premium in-flight experiences rather than ultra-exclusive ground services, so this could reflect a broader shift in strategy. Alaska will instead focus on elevated but more traditional lounge experiences.

With the closure of Apartment 1929, Hawaiian travelers looking for a premium experience at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport will be left with limited options. Ellie wrote: “We have been flying HA for over 30 years – always first class to HNL – have found the lounges OK, but not great. Now, charging $500.00 for a service most airlines provide around the world. Hard to understand!”

Hawaiian’s Premier Lounge, the airline’s main airport lounge, remains open, but it has long been criticized for its overcrowding, basic food offerings, and lack of amenities. The airline has promised an improved lounge in the future, but it will take years to materialize. They also offer the Plumeria Lounge for Business Class guests, East Coast First Class guests, and Pualani Platinums flying internationally.

The decision to eliminate premium ground services will ultimately be seen as part of a broader shift in how Hawaiian and Alaska approach luxury travel. While airlines across the industry have been increasing premium offerings, this move suggests that Hawaiian and Alaska are taking a different approach to this odd but brief foray.

Hawaiian Airlines’ attempt to offer an ultra-premium airport experience was short-lived. Apartment 1929 and its premium airport service will shut down in March, leaving premium travelers without a comparable replacement. Upgraded lounge services at Honolulu are at least two years away.

As Hawaiian continues its integration with Alaska Airlines, the future of its premium experience remains changeable.

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Lead Photo – Editor Rob receiving complimentary Apartment 1929 escort service at HNL.