09-23-2016, 02:34 AM
Unfortunately, I can't help feeling a little cynical about this. I hope it happens, but wondering if the announcement is just a tactic.
The reason I think this is because the direct route between Europe and Hawaii has always been feasible as long as it's a 4-engine aircraft. That hasn't happened (although I think Air New Zealand did it at some point, but might be wrong).
Recent changes in ETOPS rules now allows qualified 2-engine planes to fly the route, but this still hasn't happened. If it was financially adavantageous, I'm sure a European airline would have explored this route by now, but if they have, there are still no flights. I suspect the market just isn't there.
Incidentally, you can get to Hawaii from London in 24-hours if you want horrible flights (same the other way). If this route were opened, you would still have to fly to Honolulu (maybe drive to Kona, but I doubt it), so the total amount of time spent travelling might not be too different in the end.
The reason I think this is because the direct route between Europe and Hawaii has always been feasible as long as it's a 4-engine aircraft. That hasn't happened (although I think Air New Zealand did it at some point, but might be wrong).
Recent changes in ETOPS rules now allows qualified 2-engine planes to fly the route, but this still hasn't happened. If it was financially adavantageous, I'm sure a European airline would have explored this route by now, but if they have, there are still no flights. I suspect the market just isn't there.
Incidentally, you can get to Hawaii from London in 24-hours if you want horrible flights (same the other way). If this route were opened, you would still have to fly to Honolulu (maybe drive to Kona, but I doubt it), so the total amount of time spent travelling might not be too different in the end.