Born and raised on O‘ahu, Bianca McKee has been a flight attendant with Hawaiian Airlines for 10 years. Here, she shares what drew her to a career in the clouds and provides some insider tips for folks traveling to the Islands.
What first drew you to being a flight attendant?
I was attracted to working at Hawaiian Airlines as a flight attendant since we’re among the first faces our guests see when starting their vacation or returning home to the Islands. As flight attendants, we represent Hawai‘i to the world—a responsibility we take seriously—and so we strive to make every interaction with every guest come from a place of authenticity.
What are a few items every traveler to Hawai‘i should bring?
Along with reef-safe sunscreen and a reusable water bottle, every traveler should bring a willingness to learn about Hawai‘i’s culture and a sense of self-awareness and respect when exploring all that makes our Islands so special. Bishop Museum and ‘Iolani Palace are great places to learn about the rich history of Hawai‘i. When exploring outdoors, always be pono and give wildlife space and leave places better than you found them. Also, consider your abilities and the conditions before venturing into the mountains or the ocean.
What are the most frequent mistakes you see travelers make when coming to Hawai‘i?
One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers making is not accounting for O‘ahu’s traffic. Give yourself plenty of time to get to where you’re going and always share aloha on the road.
Do you have a favorite Hawaiian Island to visit?
My favorite island is Kaua‘i, the beautiful Garden Isle. It’s such a serene and lush place with wonderful people. Visiting always feels like a gift and a chance to relax and be surrounded by nature.
What spots do you always recommend visitors check out on O‘ahu?
A visit to get shave ice at Ululani’s is a must-do on any O‘ahu or Maui itinerary (pickled mango is my favorite). Visitors should also watch the best waves in the world or lounge on any beach on O‘ahu’s North Shore. On the flip side, spend a day in Waikīkī and get a Hula Pie at Duke’s—it’s iconic! Be sure to get poke bowls from K. Bay Bro’s. and watch the sunset from Keawa‘ula Bay (also known as Yokohama Bay); there’s nothing like a West Side sunset.
What is one of your favorite memories on the job?
One of my favorite memories is working the inaugural flight of Hawaiian’s first-ever Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner [in 2024]. That flight was the absolute highlight of my career so far. I had the honor of working in the Leihōkū Suites, the 787’s signature first-class cabin, and the energy from the crew and passengers was so lively and special—it was a shared moment, for sure. After that flight, I’ve never felt prouder to be a flight attendant for Hawai‘i’s carrier.
For more information about Hawaiian Airlines, visit hawaiianairlines.com.
This story was originally published in our FALL/WINTER 2025 issue, which you can buy here. Better yet, subscribe and get HAWAIʻI Magazine delivered to right to your mailbox.
Grace Maeda is the editor of HAWAIʻI Magazine.
