BREAKING NEWS: Southwest Airlines has just announced a groundbreaking new service connecting Las Vegas to Hilo, Hawaii, starting on August 6, 2026. This new route will operate three times a week on the state-of-the-art Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, marking a significant expansion for the airline and a vital link for travelers.
This development is particularly crucial as it reestablishes the first non-stop connection from the U.S. mainland to Hilo since 2023, following the discontinuation of United Airlines’ service from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Southwest will hold exclusive rights to this route, making it the only airline offering direct flights from the contiguous United States to Hilo.
The flights will depart from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas at 9:30 AM, arriving in Hilo at 12:35 PM. The return flights will leave Hilo at 8:45 PM, landing back in Las Vegas at 5:10 AM the following day. Operations will occur on Monday, Thursday, and Friday, providing convenient travel options for families and leisure travelers alike.
Adam Decaire, Senior Vice President of Network Planning at Southwest Airlines, expressed enthusiasm for the new service, stating:
“We heard you, Hilo. Las Vegas is important to you, and you’re important to us. This service gets you faster to family and fun in Nevada.”
The new flights will enhance connectivity and stimulate local economies in both Las Vegas and Hilo, catering to the demand for travel to Hawaii’s stunning landscapes and warm climate. Hilo remains a popular destination for American tourists, known for its breathtaking black sand beaches and lush rainforests.
Southwest Airlines is not stopping here. This new route is part of a larger strategy to expand its services, which includes upcoming flights to Santa Rosa, California, starting on April 7, 2026, and three new international routes to Mexico beginning on June 4, 2026.
By next August, Southwest will boast a total of 75 domestic and international year-round destinations, solidifying its status as a leading choice for Hawaii-bound travelers. With the recent announcement of plans to open its first lounge at Honolulu International Airport (HNL), Southwest is clearly focused on enhancing the travel experience for its customers.
As the excitement builds for this new service, travelers eager for a smooth journey to Hawaii can start planning their trips now. The launch of these flights is expected to attract significant interest not just from residents of Nevada, but from travelers across the United States looking for a direct escape to paradise.
Stay tuned for more updates as Southwest Airlines continues to expand its reach and redefine travel to Hawaii. This is a developing story that promises to reshape how Americans experience the beauty of Hilo.
