As someone who’s flown nearly every major U.S. carrier across both domestic and transpacific routes, I approach airline “comfort” upgrades with healthy skepticism. They often promise more than they deliver, an inch here, a snack there, rarely enough to justify the cost. Hawaiian Airlines’ Extra Comfort seating claims to offer more than that. After flying multiple times in these seats, especially on long-haul routes between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii, I’ve compiled a full expert breakdown to answer the simple question: Is it worth the upgrade?
What Is Hawaiian Extra Comfort and What Does It Include?
Hawaiian Extra Comfort is Hawaiian Airlines’ premium economy-like seating. It’s not a separate cabin class but an upgraded seat within the main economy cabin.
Here’s what you get with Hawaiian Extra Comfort:
- Extra legroom: 5–6 inches more than standard economy (36–37 inches total pitch)
- Priority boarding: Group 3 boarding after First and Business Class
- Power outlet access: Shared or individual outlets depending on aircraft
- Amenity kit: Only on international flights (Japan, Korea, Australia)
- Dedicated overhead bin space: Not always enforced
- Seat location: Front of the main cabin for faster deplaning
These benefits apply on most Airbus A330, A321neo, and Boeing 717 aircraft.
How Comfortable Are the Extra Comfort Seats in Practice?
Let me be clear: these are not lie-flat seats or even premium economy as seen on ANA or Delta. But if you’re flying 5+ hours, especially on overnight routes, that extra legroom makes a measurable difference.
Seat Specifications by Aircraft
| Aircraft | Pitch (Extra Comfort) | Standard Economy | Width |
| A330-200 | 36–37 inches | 31 inches | 18 inches |
| A321neo | 35 inches | 30 inches | 17.7 inches |
| Boeing 717 | 36 inches (row 4–5) | 30 inches | 18 inches |
Real-World Seat Experience
- Legroom: Noticeably more space to stretch, especially useful on flights over 5 hours like LAX–HNL or BOS–HNL.
- Cushioning: Identical to standard economy; don’t expect thicker padding.
- Recline: Slightly better, but still limited.
On an 11-hour flight from Honolulu to Sydney, I appreciated the stretch room but still struggled to sleep without a leg rest or foot support.
Is the In-Flight Experience Better in Extra Comfort?
The seat location and earlier boarding do improve the experience marginally, but you do not get upgraded food, alcohol, or separate service. You’re still in the same cabin class.
Pros:
- Faster boarding and deplaning
- Easier access to lavatories and cabin crew
- Quieter zones (especially rows 11–14 on A330)
Cons:
- Same meals as economy
- No free alcohol (unless international flight)
- Entertainment system identical to economy
Unless you’re on an international flight, the differentiation is purely physical, not experiential.
What Does Extra Comfort Cost and How Does It Compare?
The upgrade cost for Hawaiian Extra Comfort is dynamic, varying by route, time, and seat demand. Here’s a real-world comparison:
Sample Prices for Extra Comfort Upgrade (as of May 2025)
| Route | Standard Economy | Extra Comfort | Price Difference |
| LAX – HNL | $385 | $545 | +$160 |
| JFK – HNL | $450 | $660 | +$210 |
| HNL – Tokyo (HND) | $690 | $880 | +$190 |
| HNL – Sydney | $850 | $1,050 | +$200 |
The upgrade often falls between $125 and $200 one-way.
Value Comparison
- For flights under 5 hours: marginal benefit
- For flights 6+ hours: worth it only if legroom and earlier boarding matter to you
- For international flights: more justifiable, thanks to amenity kits and longer duration
How Does Extra Comfort Compare to Competitors?
When stacked against similar products from U.S. airlines, Hawaiian’s Extra Comfort lands somewhere between a true premium economy and a standard economy+ seat.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Hawaiian Extra Comfort | Delta Comfort+ | United Economy Plus | American Main Cabin Extra |
| Extra legroom | Yes (5–6”) | Yes (3–4”) | Yes (3–4”) | Yes (4–5”) |
| Priority boarding | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Free alcohol | No (except int’l) | Yes | No | No |
| Enhanced meal | No | No | No | No |
| Price range (avg.) | $125–$200 | $60–$150 | $70–$170 | $75–$160 |
In my experience, Delta Comfort+ offers slightly more value due to better snack service and free drinks on longer flights. Hawaiian shines more on international routes where the competition weakens.
Is Extra Comfort Worth It for Families, Couples, or Solo Travelers?
It depends on your travel intent and physical needs.
Best Use Cases
- Tall passengers (6ft+): Clear benefit, especially in A330 and A321neo
- Couples traveling together: First few rows are quieter, ideal for sleep
- Older travelers: Easier boarding, more stretch room, proximity to lavatories
Less Ideal Scenarios
- Short-haul inter-island flights: Waste of money
- Budget-conscious flyers: Not worth +$150 for minimal benefits
I’ve flown both in standard and Extra Comfort on the same BOS–HNL route. The difference is comfort, not service.
Are There Any Hidden Downsides?
Yes. A few issues tend to surface:
- Inconsistent seat conditions: Some A330s have aging seat shells or broken outlets.
- Overhead bin enforcement: Not strictly enforced; can lose bin space if boarding late.
- No guaranteed amenities: Amenity kits only on select international flights.
Additionally, some aircraft do not offer power outlets in all Extra Comfort seats, especially older A330s. Always verify equipment via SeatGuru or airline seat maps.
Is Hawaiian Extra Comfort Worth the Upgrade?
Yes, for the right flight and traveler. If you’re flying between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii or internationally, the upgrade provides real physical comfort that improves your in-flight experience. It’s especially valuable if you’re tall, elderly, or traveling overnight. But if you’re expecting premium meals or luxury, this isn’t the product for you.
| Worth It If… | Skip It If… |
| You’re over 6 feet tall | You’re on a flight under 5 hours |
| You want faster boarding and exit | You expect meal or drink upgrades |
| You’re on a 7+ hour international flight | You want lie-flat or premium seating |
Hawaiian Extra Comfort offers real value, just know its limits. It’s comfort, not class.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawaiian Extra Comfort
Is Extra Comfort a separate cabin?
No. It’s an upgraded seat within the economy cabin.
Can you select Extra Comfort seats after booking?
Yes. You can upgrade during check-out, after booking, or during check-in (if seats remain).
Does Extra Comfort come with lounge access?
No. Lounge access is not included unless you’re flying First Class or are a premium status member.
Are meals better in Extra Comfort?
No. You get the same meals as economy class passengers.
Can I use miles to upgrade to Extra Comfort?
Yes, HawaiianMiles can be used to upgrade, subject to availability.