This "not profitable for the airlines" talk never really seemed believeable to me. (1) Even if lots of FF miles are being used, there is a mileage surcharge to use them to Hawaii ... and less miles in accounts HELPS the liabilities of an airline, (2) The cargo hold of each flight more than makes up for any theoretical "loss" on the routes. If the routes were truly unprofitable, no one would fly there without a subsidy.

HOWEVER, with all these 2 engine/narrowbody planes now rated to fly over there, it makes for a much more economical passenger service.