Anyone who has flown to the islands on United Airlines knows about the carrier’s Halfway to Hawaii game. Featured on all Hawaii-bound flights — an average of 800 flights per month — the 35-year tradition challenges passengers to guess the exact time the airplane crosses the geographic midpoint of its flight, with a prize for the winner.
Recently, Hilton Hawaii signed on to become the official sponsor of the long-running game.
“Hilton has had a relationship with United Airlines for decades, and this new venture further cements our commitment to United and its importance to Hawaii,” said Hilton Hawaii area vice president and managing director Jerry Gibson.
At the beginning of each flight, the crew provides passengers with the flight plan, including air speed, altitude, wind conditions and other information. The passenger who guess comes closest to the correct time on each flight wins “Facing Future,” a CD by one of Hawaii’s most beloved artists, Israel Kamakawiwoole. The CD features Kamakawiwoole’s uniquely Hawaiian version of the song, “Over the Rainbow.”
In addition, each passenger receives a flyer featuring special offers for the Waikiki Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa and Legends of the Pacific Luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaii’s Big Island; a discount coupon for the Naupaka Terrace Restaurant at Hilton Kauai Beach Resort; and an offer for resort credit on dining, spa treatments and select activities at the Grand Wailea on Maui. Full redemption details are listed on the flyer.
Whether or not they win the game, passengers visiting Oahu or Hawaii’s Big Island can bring the flyer to the Hilton hotels’ information desks to receive a free Hawaiian music CD. Passengers bound for Kauai and Maui can visit the Halfway to Hawaii Web site and use the code on their flyer to receive a free Hawaiian music download.
United Airlines is the largest commercial carrier serving Hawaii from the U.S. mainland, flying more than 4 million passengers per year to and from Hawaii.
“United Airlines has proudly served the Aloha State for more than five decades,” said United Airlines managing director of onboard global product Stuart Benzal. “With added service, new island-inspired menus and the partnership with Hilton in the Halfway to Hawaii game, we look forward to continuing this proud legacy.”
www.hilton.com
www.united.com
