Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy

Taking Your Furry Friend to Paradise: A Guide to Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy

Planning a trip to the beautiful Hawaiian islands with your furry companion? Hawaiian Airlines offers pet travel options, but navigating the airline’s pet policy can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will break down everything you need to know about flying your pet with Hawaiian Airlines, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey for both you and your pet.

Is Your Pet Eligible to Fly with Hawaiian Airlines?

Hawaiian Airlines allows dogs, cats, and household birds (on selected flights) to travel with you. However, there are restrictions:

• Travel Restrictions:
  • Pets are not accepted on international flights or flights to/from JFK (New York), BOS (Boston), or AUS (Austin).
  • Maui-bound flights have additional restrictions for pets traveling as checked baggage (more on this later).
• Species Restrictions: Only dogs, cats, and household birds are permitted.
• Age Restrictions: No pet under eight weeks old is allowed.

Cabin or Checked Baggage: Choosing the Right Travel Option for Your Pet

Hawaiian Airlines offers two ways for your pet to fly:

• In-Cabin Travel: This is suitable for small dogs and cats that meet specific size and weight requirements. The combined weight of your pet and its carrier must not exceed 25 lbs (11 kg) and fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
• Checked Baggage Travel: This option is ideal for larger pets or those exceeding the in-cabin size and weight limits. The combined weight of your pet and its carrier cannot exceed 70 lbs (32 kg).

General Requirements for Flying Your Pet with Hawaiian Airlines

Here’s a checklist of essential requirements to ensure your pet’s safe and compliant travel:

• Health Certificate: A health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of departure is mandatory.
• Approved Carrier: Your pet must travel in a well-ventilated, IATA-compliant carrier that meets the airline’s size restrictions. You can find these carriers at most pet stores OR you can check here online on Amazon.
• Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including vaccination records, health certificates, and import permits (if applicable) readily available.
• Advanced Booking: Space for pets in both the cabin and checked baggage is limited. It’s crucial to book your pet’s travel well in advance, ideally 48 hours before your flight.
• Pet Fees: Be prepared to pay pet fees, which vary depending on your chosen travel option (in-cabin or checked baggage) and the distance of your flight.

In-Cabin Travel with Hawaiian Airlines

Here are some additional details to remember specifically for in-cabin pet travel:

• In-Cabin Eligibility: This option is only available on inter-island flights within Hawaii and flights between the Hawaiian islands and the US Mainland (excluding JFK, BOS, and AUS).
• Size and Weight Restrictions: The combined weight of your pet and its carrier must not exceed 25 lbs (11 kg). The carrier dimensions must not exceed 16” long x 10” wide x 9.5” high to fit comfortably under the seat.
• Pet Fee: The fee for in-cabin pet travel varies depending on the flight distance. Expect to pay around $35 for inter-island flights and $125 for all other eligible flights (one way).

Checked Baggage Travel with Hawaiian Airlines

Here are some key points to remember for checked baggage pet travel:

• Eligibility: This option is available on inter-island flights within Hawaii and flights between the Hawaiian islands and the US Mainland (excluding JFK, BOS, and AUS). However, Maui-bound flights have a restriction – only one (1) pet kennel is allowed in the baggage compartment per flight.
• Size and Weight Restrictions: The combined weight of your pet and its carrier cannot exceed 70 lbs (32 kg). The carrier dimensions must not exceed 36” long x 25” wide x 28” high.
• Pet Fee: The fee for checked baggage pet travel varies depending on the flight distance. Expect to pay around $60 for inter-island flights and $225 for all other eligible flights (one way).
• Temperature Restrictions: In extreme weather conditions, Hawaiian Airlines reserves the right to restrict pet transport in the cargo hold to ensure your pet’s safety.

Tips for a Smooth and Stress-Free Flight for Your Pet

• Acclimate Your Pet to the Carrier: Let your pet become familiar and comfortable with the carrier well before the flight. Leave the carrier open at home with a favorite blanket or toy inside.
• Label the Carrier Clearly: Affix clear labels with your pet’s name, contact information, and “Live Animal” markings on all sides of the carrier.
• Fasting and Hydration: Follow your veterinarian’s advice regarding food and water restrictions before the flight. Generally, withhold food for several hours before the flight, but ensure your pet has access to water.
• Provide Comfort Items: Include a familiar blanket, chew toy, or anything that provides comfort for your pet inside the carrier. Avoid placing food or water bowls inside the carrier as they can spill during transport.
• Plan for Layovers: If your trip involves layovers, inquire about pet relief areas at the connecting airports. You may need to collect your pet’s carrier for a short walk and bathroom break during extended layovers.
• Be Calm and Reassuring: Your pet can pick up on your anxiety. Project calmness and maintain a positive demeanor throughout the travel process.

Additional Resources and Important Links

• Hawaiian Airlines Traveling with Animals: https://www.hawaiianairlines.com/our-services/special-assistance/traveling-with-animals
• US Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Pet Travel Information: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/pet-travel

Flying with your furry friend to Hawaii can be a fantastic experience. By familiarizing yourself with Hawaiian Airlines pet policy, planning ahead, and taking steps to ensure your pet’s comfort, you can guarantee a smooth journey for both of you.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for consulting with your veterinarian or referring to the official Hawaiian Airlines pet policy for the latest information and requirements.

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