Hawaiian Airlines is tightening check-in and baggage rules for inter-island flights, which means less flexibility for local travelers but should mean fewer delays and lost bags.

• Starting October 3, neighbor island passengers must check in through the Alaska Airlines app, part of Hawaiian's ongoing merger into Alaska.
• Checked bags must be dropped off at least 50 minutes before departure, up from 30 minutes today.
• The airline says the extra time will improve baggage handling and help flights leave on schedule.
• Hawaiian's international check-in at Honolulu is also moving to a different terminal lobby.

Outlook: Expect more Hawaiian-branded services and systems to fold into Alaska's as the merger integration continues.