Southwest Airlines to Launch Nonstop Service from Ontario to Honolulu in June 2026: What You Need To Know

Published on November 26, 2025

Southwest Airlines has announced that it will begin daily nonstop service from Ontario International Airport (ONT) in Southern California to Honolulu starting June 4, 2026. This new route will provide another convenient option for travelers looking to fly between California and Hawaii, increasing accessibility and expanding Southwest’s reach in one of the most popular travel corridors.

The new service will feature a morning departure from Ontario, with a return flight from Honolulu in the evening. This addition is set to significantly enhance travel options for residents of Southern California and beyond, as the route complements existing service provided by Alaska Airlines and provides increased seating capacity to meet the growing demand for travel to Hawaii.

Southwest’s Growing Presence at Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is Southern California’s second-most-popular mid-sized airport, and the addition of Southwest’s nonstop service to Honolulu is a significant milestone for the airport. Southwest Airlines, the largest carrier at ONT, celebrated its 40th anniversary with the airport earlier in 2025. In 2024, Southwest served approximately 36% of the airport’s passengers, making the airline a cornerstone of ONT’s operations.

Southwest’s new route to Honolulu further solidifies its longstanding partnership with Ontario International Airport, which is set to mark the 10-year anniversary of its return to local ownership in the coming months. The launch of this route is expected to draw even more travelers to the airport, offering additional choices for both leisure and business travelers heading to Hawaii.

Enhancing Travel Convenience with New Flight Options

The new Southwest Airlines route will be operated by the airline’s Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets, which are equipped with 175 seats and feature modern amenities such as in-seat power and free Wi-Fi for members of the airline’s Rapid Rewards loyalty program. This will ensure that passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable journey, with plenty of options for entertainment and convenience during the flight.

In addition to the flight’s modern amenities, the service will include assigned seating, which will be introduced starting January 27, 2026. Passengers can choose from standard, preferred, and expanded legroom seating options, enhancing the customer experience by offering more flexibility and comfort.

A Growing Demand for California to Hawaii Travel

With Hawaii being a top destination for travelers from California, the addition of Southwest’s nonstop flights to Honolulu from Ontario International Airport is expected to meet a growing demand. The direct route to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) will make it easier for California travelers to reach the islands, especially with the flexibility of Southwest’s affordable and reliable service.

The new route will also support the broader trend of increased air travel demand between California and Hawaii. As both leisure and business travel continue to rise, especially after the pandemic recovery, airports like Ontario International are becoming even more vital gateways for Southern California residents.

Expanding Travel Options for Southern California

For Southern California residents, the convenience of Ontario International Airport offers a much-needed alternative to the larger, busier Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Located just 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, ONT serves as a more accessible, less crowded option for those traveling domestically and internationally. The new nonstop service to Honolulu further expands the options available to travelers looking to explore the Aloha State.

Southwest Airlines Enhances California-Hawaii Travel Connections

With the launch of nonstop flights from Ontario International Airport to Honolulu, Southwest Airlines continues to improve travel connectivity for Southern California residents. This new route offers both convenience and comfort, with modern amenities on the Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets, increased seating capacity, and affordable travel options. As Southwest Airlines celebrates its long-standing partnership with Ontario International, this new service further positions the airport as a key gateway for travelers looking to explore Hawaii.

The expansion of Southwest’s service to Honolulu is just one example of how airlines are adapting to the increasing demand for travel and providing more options for consumers. With the new route set to begin in June 2026, travelers can start planning their Hawaiian getaway and enjoy an easy, direct flight to one of the most popular destinations in the Pacific.