The Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 717 seating chart features a single-aisle, 2-3 layout in Economy and a 2-2 configuration in First Class, accommodating a total of 128 passengers across a two-class cabin optimized for short-haul inter-island flights in Hawaii.
Navigating regional air travel across the Hawaiian Islands requires understanding the specific aircraft configurations deployed by local carriers. Hawaiian Airlines relies heavily on its fleet of Boeing 717-200 aircraft to manage the high-frequency, short-duration routes linking Honolulu (HNL) with Kahului (OGG), Kona (KOA), Lihue (LIH), and Hilo (ITO). Because these aircraft were originally designed for short-hop high-density domestic markets, their cabin dimensions, seat pitch, and overall layout differ markedly from the wide-body Airbus A330s or narrow-body Airbus A321neos used on transpacific routes. Examining the Boeing 717 seating chart provides travelers with the insight necessary to select optimal seating, manage baggage expectations, and maximize comfort during their island-hopping journeys.
Technical Specifications and Fleet Role of the Boeing 717
The Boeing 717-200 is a twin-engine, short-range narrow-body airliner originally developed by McDonnell Douglas as the MD-95 before Boeing acquired the program. Hawaiian Airlines utilizes these aircraft exclusively for its robust inter-island network. Operating flights that rarely exceed 40 minutes in the air, the aircraft is engineered for rapid turnarounds at gate terminals across the Hawaiian chain.
Despite its aging airframe lineage, the interior layout has undergone periodic refreshes to align with passenger expectations. The aircraft features a total capacity of 128 seats, divided into a premium forward cabin and a main economy cabin. The propulsion system relies on two rear-mounted Rolls-Royce BR715 engines, which create a distinctly quieter cabin environment for passengers seated forward of the wing, while those seated in the absolute rear rows may experience higher ambient engine noise.
| Cabin Class | Configuration (Left - Right) | Seat Count / Pitch |
|---|---|---|
| First Class | 2 - 2 (A-C / D-F) | 8 Seats / 37-38 in. |
| Extra Comfort | 2 - 3 (A-C / D-E-F) | Variable / 34-35 in. |
| Main Cabin | 2 - 3 (A-C / D-E-F) | 120 Total (incl. Extra) |
Understanding the layout requires examining how the physical limitations of a narrow-body twin-jet shape the passenger experience. Unlike larger aircraft with dual aisles or wide overhead bin capacities, the Boeing 717 requires careful planning regarding carry-on luggage sizes, boarding procedures, and seat selection based on personal preference for windows or aisles.
First Class Cabin Configuration and Features
The First Class cabin on the Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 717 is located at the front of the aircraft, encompassing rows 1 and 2. Unlike major US domestic carriers that feature large domestic first-class cabins with reclining sleeper shells, the Boeing 717 First Class setup is intimate, consisting of just 8 total seats arranged in a 2-2 configuration.
Seating Layout and Dimensions
Seats are designated as follows:
- Row 1: A, C on the left side of the aisle; D, F on the right side.
- Row 2: A, C on the left side of the aisle; D, F on the right side.
The seat pitch—the distance from one point on a seat to the exact same point on the seat in front of it—is generous for a regional aircraft, measuring approximately 37 to 38 inches. Seat width is roughly 21 inches, offering ample elbow room compared to the main cabin.
Pros and Cons of First Class
- Advantages: Priority boarding, dedicated overhead storage, early baggage delivery upon arrival, and personalized service during the short flight. Passengers enjoy significantly more legroom and a recliner-style seat structure.
- Disadvantages: Due to the small size of the cabin (only two rows), passengers in Row 2 may experience minor disturbance from galley preparation or the forward lavatory. Additionally, because the flights are extremely short (often 20 to 35 minutes in the air), the window of time for beverage service and premium hospitality is compressed.
Main Cabin and Extra Comfort Layout
The vast majority of the Boeing 717 seating chart is dedicated to the Main Cabin, which utilizes a unique asymmetric 2-3 seating configuration. This layout is a hallmark of the DC-9/MD-80/717 family lineage.
Asymmetric Seating Explained
On the left side of the single aisle, seats are designated A (window) and C (aisle), omitting the letter B. On the right side of the aisle, seats are designated D (window), E (middle), and F (aisle).
- Solo travelers who despise middle seats gravitate heavily toward the left side of the plane (A and C), where there are zero middle seats.
- Families or groups of three frequently book the D, E, and F cluster on the right side of the aircraft to sit together across a single row.
Extra Comfort Seating
Hawaiian Airlines designates specific rows within the Main Cabin as Extra Comfort, offering expanded legroom and priority boarding privileges.
- Legroom: Extra Comfort seats offer a pitch of 34 to 35 inches, compared to the standard 30 to 31 inches in the standard Main Cabin.
- Location: These seats are typically situated in emergency exit rows and the forward sections of the economy cabin.
- Amenities: In addition to extra legroom, Extra Comfort passengers receive access to power outlets where available, priority security screening (at select airports), and priority boarding.
Comprehensive Seat Selection Strategy
Choosing the right seat on the Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 717 depends on individual travel priorities, such as quick deplaning, avoiding middle seats, or managing traveling companions.
Best Seats for Quick Exiting
Because inter-island flights are fast and passengers often travel light with minimal checked bags, deplaning efficiently is a high priority.
- Row 1 and Row 2 (First Class): Deplane first from the forward door.
- Rows 4 through 7 (Forward Economy): These rows empty out rapidly once the door opens. Seat 4A, 4C, 4D, or 4F offer quick escapes into the terminal jetbridge or airstairs.
Best Seats for Avoiding Middle Seats
- Book seats A or C on the left side of the aircraft. Because the left side features only two seats per row, selecting an aisle (C) or window (A) guarantees you will never be trapped between two other passengers.
Seats to Approach with Caution
- The Last Row (Row 25 or depending on specific tail configuration): These seats are located directly adjacent to the rear galley and lavatories, and they sit in close proximity to the roaring Pratt & Whitney / Rolls-Royce aft-mounted engines. Foot traffic and noise can make these seats less desirable for resting.
- Middle Seats (E): Positioned between D and F on the right side of the aircraft, these seats offer less lateral personal space due to the narrow-body design constraints.
Baggage and Overhead Bin Constraints on the Boeing 717
One of the most critical operational realities of the Boeing 717 seating chart involves overhead bin space. Because the aircraft is smaller than wide-body jets, the overhead bins on the Boeing 717 have significantly reduced volumetric capacity.
| Factor | Operational Impact |
|---|---|
| Overhead Bin Size | Accommodates smaller roller bags; oversized bags must be gate-checked. |
| Under-Seat Storage | Varies by row; escape slide housings in exit rows restrict under-seat space. |
| Inter-Island Bags | Passengers often utilize Hawaiian Airlines' generous island baggage policies for checked luggage. |
Standard international-sized roller bags frequently fail to fit wheels-first or sideways in Boeing 717 overhead bins, requiring them to be placed flat or gate-checked. Hawaiian Airlines ground staff are well-versed in managing gate checks for larger carry-ons on full flights. Passengers are encouraged to utilize the airline's checked baggage options or ensure their personal items and carry-ons conform to stricter regional size tolerances to avoid boarding delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 717 have seatback entertainment?
No, the Boeing 717 fleet does not feature embedded seatback entertainment screens. Passengers are encouraged to download content or stream available media via their personal devices utilizing wireless streaming services where supported, though flights are generally short enough that onboard entertainment is rarely required.
Are there power outlets at every seat on the Boeing 717?
Power outlets (AC and USB ports) are not standard across all seats in the Main Cabin. They are typically available in First Class and select Extra Comfort rows. Passengers requiring device charging should ensure their electronics are powered up prior to boarding.
Which side of the plane offers the best views between islands?
The ideal window seat depends entirely on your specific flight path and time of day. For flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Kahului (OGG) or Kona (KOA), sitting on the right side (Seats D or F) often provides stunning views of the coastline and neighboring islands during takeoff or final descent, though weather and air traffic routing can alter flight paths.
How do I select Extra Comfort seating on a Boeing 717?
Extra Comfort seating can be selected during the initial ticket booking process on the Hawaiian Airlines website, or added later via the "Manage Flights" portal for an additional fee. Elite members of HawaiianMiles may receive complimentary upgrades to Extra Comfort depending on their tier status and ticket fare class.
Are restrooms located at the front or rear of the Boeing 717?
Lavatories are located at both the very front of the aircraft (near the First Class cabin) and the rear of the aircraft (near the final economy rows). Main cabin passengers generally use the aft lavatories, while First Class passengers have dedicated access to the forward facility.
Summary and Travel Recommendations
Mastering the Hawaiian Airlines Boeing 717 seating chart ensures a smooth, comfortable inter-island transit. Prioritize booking seats on the left side of the aircraft (A and C) if you prefer to avoid middle seats entirely, or target forward economy rows (Rows 4 through 8) to secure rapid deplaning upon arrival at your destination island. Keep in mind the physical constraints of narrow-body overhead bins by packing appropriately sized carry-on items or utilizing checked baggage allowances. By understanding the unique 2-3 and 2-2 cabin geometry, travelers can tailor their regional flight experience for maximum convenience and comfort.
