I had the brilliant idea of going to Lanai during the 2nd week of June. After looking at the loads into and out of HNL (39+ in the back on DL to HNL, 20+ on the return + 9 in F), I went ahead and booked a great deal on Lanai. We will jump over to Lanai from HNL (more on that in a minute).

Did I read the forums first about the 'black hole' that is known as flying out of HNL?? Will my husband trust my expert nonrev skills in the future?? Did I mention that we're flying with 2 small children?? I'm officially scared.

Here are the options:

Not too worried about ATL-HNL on 6/7. Feel fairly confident we'll either get on the direct or the SLC connection. Flight(s) get us in at 2:15 ish and then appears to be a long wait until a 6:20 p.m. flight to LNY. Any suggestions are welcome.

The part I didn't plan so well for is the return and did not understand the challenges with flying out of HNL in the summer (I know I should know better):

HNL direct to ATL- 20+ in the back on Sunday 6/14. We have 'decent, not great but OK' S-2 capability with a 2000 hire date.
All other HNL back to the mainland will be considered.

Other alternative: Take the ferry to Maui and take the OGG flight back. 25+ on this flight with 2 listed.

Opinions? Besides hiding in shame and staying here

Am I overestimating the challenges as there are now more UA options?

Thanks!