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Traveling with animals requires thoughtful planning, especially when it involves emotional support animals (ESAs) or service animals. Hawaiian Airlines pet policy ensures a safe and compliant experience for pets and passengers by outlining detailed procedures for both in-cabin and checked pet travel, including kennel requirements, health certifications, and breed restrictions. Due to changes in federal regulations and concerns over in-flight animal incidents, Hawaiian Airlines now treats ESAs* as regular pets, while service animals remain protected under the Air Carrier Access Act. For pets too large for cabin travel, Hawaiian Airlines pet cargo service provides a safe, temperature-controlled alternative. Hawaiian Airlines dog policy and Hawaiian Airlines pet cargo guidelines also list species limitations, destination-based restrictions, and required documentation, all designed to protect animal welfare and uphold safety standards throughout the journey.
What is Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy?
Hawaiian Airlines pet policy permits pet travel under specific conditions, reinforcing its reputation as a pet-conscious domestic carrier. Hawaiian airlines pet policy allows small dogs and cats to travel in the passenger cabin on interisland and select North American routes, provided they meet the required carrier specifications and documentation guidelines.
Larger animals were previously accepted as checked baggage or through the now-suspended PetSafe program. This specialized service offered climate-controlled cargo transport for pets but has been temporarily halted due to staffing and safety concerns. In the absence of this program, travelers must consider in-cabin options for eligible animals.
For those flying with pets on Hawaiian Airlines, it’s important to understand current guidelines. Service animals, specifically dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities, are protected under federal law and may travel in the cabin at no additional cost. However, emotional support animals are no longer accepted and are now subject to standard pet travel regulations.
Familiarizing yourself with Hawaiian Airlines pet in cabin policy and Hawaiian airlines dog policy, is essential to avoid travel disruptions. Given the suspension of Hawaiian Airlines pet cargo services, travelers with larger pets should explore all available alternatives well in advance as it is not easy to transport large dogs to the island.
What Types of Pets Does Hawaiian Airlines Allow?
Hawaiian Airlines pet policy allows small domesticated dogs and cats to travel in-cabin, as long as they fit in an approved carrier under the seat. For checked baggage service on interisland and select transpacific flights, dogs, cats, and household birds are permitted if all crate and documentation requirements are met. However, snub-nosed breeds, like bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats, as well as aggressive dog breeds, such as pitbulls and certain mastiffs, are restricted due to safety concerns. The Hawaiian Airlines pet cargo service which previously accommodated larger animals in a climate-controlled area, is currently suspended. Until it resumes, travelers must rely on in-cabin or checked baggage options.
How Much Does Hawaiian Airlines Charge per Pet?
Hawaiian Airlines enforces a clear and structured pricing system for pet transport, making it easier for pet owners to plan ahead. Hawaiian Airlines charges a pet in-cabin fee of $35 for interisland flights and $125 for transpacific routes between Hawaii and North America. For pets traveling as checked baggage, often associated with Hawaiian Airlines’ pet cargo cost, fees are $60 for interisland transport and $225 for flights to or from the U.S. mainland.
Full cargo services, when available, are priced based on factors such as animal weight, kennel size, and flight distance. These charges under Hawaiian Airlines pet policy can sometimes exceed $375 per pet. The tiered fee structure reflects Hawaiian Airlines pet travel system, which is designed to comply e with federal regulations and accommodate a variety of pet transport needs.
Among the airlines that allow pets in the cabin from Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines stands out for its extensive island-to-mainland routes and detailed, and species-specific protocols. Understanding the pricing and requirements outlined in Hawaiian Airlines’ pet policy helps pet owners make informed travel decisions, especially when coordinating transport based on pet size, route availability, and health documentation.
Are Pets Allowed on International Flights with Hawaiian Airlines?
No, pets are not allowed on international flights with Hawaiian Airlines, either as in-cabin companions or checked baggage. This restriction aligns with destination-specific animal import regulations, quarantine requirements, and international aviation safety protocols. However, an exception is made for trained service dogs, which are permitted to travel in the cabin when accompanying individuals with disabilities, as protected under federal law. For all other animals, Hawaiian Airlines advises travelers to arrange transport through Hawaiian Air Cargo, provided the route is approved and all health and documentation requirements are met according to the destination country’s regulations. This policy ensures that the transport of animals internationally is conducted in a safe, humane, and legally compliant manner.
What is Hawaiian Airlines In-Cabin Pet Policy?
Hawaiian Airlines in-cabin pet policy allows passengers to bring only one pet per carrier. Exceptions are made for puppies or kittens from the same litter, aged between 8 weeks and 6 months old, who may travel together. All pets must remain inside a soft-sided, airline-approved carrier for the entire duration of the flight. The carrier must allow the animal to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably, ensuring ease of movement within the enclosed space.
Seating options for passengers travelling with pets are limited. Pets are not allowed in First Class, bulkhead or exit-row seats, or in any area lacking under-seat storage. To secure space, advance booking is required by calling Reservations at 1-800-367-5320 ideally at least 48 hours before departure, as space for in-cabin pets is limited. Under Hawaiian Airlines pet in-cabin fee varies by depending on the route.
What is the Recommended Pet Carrier Size for In-Cabin Travel With Hawaiian Airlines?
The recommended pet carrier size for in-cabin travel with Hawaiian Airlines is approximately 16 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 9.5 inches high. According to Hawaiian Airlines’ pet carrier requirements, the carrier must be soft-sided, leak-proof, and well-ventilated. Pets must be able to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably inside. These guidelines apply to both cats and dogs under the general Hawaiian Airlines pet policy. While Hawaiian Airlines service animal rules are handled separately, all other pets must meet these in-cabin carrier standards. The Hawaiian Airlines dog policy also emphasizes that carriers function as both containment and comfort during the flight.
Is there a Pet Weight Limit for In-Cabin Travel on Hawaiian Airlines?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines has a weight limit for pets traveling in the cabin. According to Hawaiian Air’s pet policy, the combined weight of the pet and its carrier must not exceed 25 pounds. This rule applies to both dogs and cats. Pets must comfortably fit within the airline-approved soft-sided carrier allowing them to be seated or standing inside the carrier without any parts of their bodies sticking out. Larger pets that exceed the weight or size limit must travel via cargo.
Can You Bring More Than One Pet In-Cabin According to Hawaiian Airlines Pet Policy?
Yes, you can bring more than one pet in the cabin under Hawaiian Airlines’ pet policy, but only in specific cases. Hawaiian Airlines’ pet in-cabin guidelines permit a passenger to bring two puppies or two kittens from the same breed and litter, as long as they are between 8 weeks and 6 months old. Both must fit comfortably in a single airline-approved soft-sided carrier that meets under-seat storage requirements. This exception applies only to young littermates; otherwise, Hawaiian Airlines allows just one pet per carrier per passenger.
Does Hawaiian Airlines Require a Health Certificate for Pet Travel?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines requires a valid health certificate for pet travel on most routes, except for inter-island flights within Hawaii. A veterinarian-issued health certificate dated within 14 days of departure is mandatory for pets flying between the U.S. mainland and Hawaii or on any international route. This confirms the pet is healthy, free of communicable diseases, and fit to fly. According to Hawaiian Airlines’ dog transport policy, this rule is especially important for pets traveling in cargo. Even for in-cabin pets, a health certificate is required under the Hawaiian Airlines pet in-cabin policy when flying into Hawaii due to the state’s strict quarantine regulations.
Does Hawaiian Airlines Allow Pets to Travel in Cargo?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines allows pets to travel in cargo through two options: as checked baggage and via Hawaiian Air Cargo. Under the Hawaiian Airline pet policy, dogs, cats, and household birds may be transported if they meet the size, breed, and kennel requirements. Checked baggage is limited to inter-island and mainland U.S. flights, while Hawaiian Air Cargo accommodates unaccompanied pets. Animals must be in IATA-approved hard-sided kennels. Reservations must be made in advance by contacting the Cargo Capacity Desk at 1-877-HA-CARGO (422-2746). Moreover, pets must be dropped off and picked up at designated Hawaiian Air Cargo facilities, not at passenger terminals.
Are there Temperature or Weather Restrictions for Cargo Pet Travel with Hawaiian Airlines?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines enforces strict temperature and weather restrictions for pets traveling in cargo. Hawaiian Airlines pet travel is not allowed if temperatures at the origin, layover, or destination exceed 85°F (29.4°C) or fall below 45°F (7.2°C). These rules help prevent heat stress and hypothermia during transit. As part of Hawaiian Airlines flying with pets policies, seasonal embargoes and schedule adjustments may apply to maintain safe conditions for animals.
Are Emotional Support Animals Allowed on Hawaiian Airlines?
No, Hawaiian Airlines no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals. In compliance with the updated U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, Hawaiian Air pet policy now treats ESAs as regular pets. They must follow standard Hawaiian Airlines pet travel rules, including carrier requirements, applicable fees, and routing options. Hawaiian Airlines’ emotional support animal policy requires ESAs to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on size and route, with Hawaiian Airlines pet cargo cost varying by destination. This change reflects broader industry standards for Emotional Support Animals and is enforced consistently.
Can you Travel with an ESA as a Regular Pet on Hawaiian Airlines?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines allows emotional support animals (ESAs) to travel as regular pets under its standard pet travel policy. ESA Letters no longer grant special privileges. Under Hawaiian Airlines pet policy, ESAs must meet all requirements for in-cabin or cargo travel, including carrier size, weight limits, and behavioral standards. Travel fees apply, and seating is limited to areas with proper under-seat space.
Can Hawaiian Airlines Deny an ESA?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines denies emotional support animals (ESAs) that fail to meet the airline’s standard pet travel requirements. Since ESAs no longer qualify as service animals under federal policy, they fall under the same regulations applied to all pets. Denial occurs for several reasons, including use of non-approved carriers, exceeding size or weight limitations, failure to secure a reservation in advance, or exhibiting aggressive or disruptive behavior. Compliance with all policies ensures smoother processing and reduces the risk of denied boarding. Travelers planning to travel to Hawaii with their emotional support animals must understand that rules apply uniformly, and no exceptions exist based on ESA status.
What is Hawaiian Airlines Policy for Service Animals?
Hawaiian Airlines recognizes only dogs as service animals, in compliance with U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, and permits both physical and psychiatric service dogs to accompany travelers in the cabin at no additional charge. Hawaiian Airlines service animal policy does not require a carrier for qualified service dogs, provided the animal remains under control and does not block aisles or emergency exits. A minimum age of four months is required for a service dog to travel, and each animal must be fully trained to perform specific tasks that assist individuals with disabilities. Emphasis is placed on behavioral standards and training, particularly for air travel, to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for all passengers. This policy reflects a clear distinction from general Hawaiian Airlines flying with pets guidelines under the broader Hawaiian Air pet policy, and differs from Hawaiian Airlines pet carrier requirements, which apply only to non-service animals.
What is the Procedure for Flying with a Service Dog on Hawaiian Airlines?
The procedure for flying with a service dog on Hawaiian Airlines is listed below.
- Confirm Eligibility. Verify that the animal meets the federal definition of a service dog, limited to dogs trained to perform tasks for individuals with physical or psychiatric disabilities.
- Complete Required Documentation. Fill out the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form, confirming the dog’s health, training, and behavior. If the flight duration exceeds 8 hours, the Relief Attestation Form is also necessary. Submit the completed forms at least 48 hours before departure to Hawaiian Airlines.
- Add the Service Dog to the Reservation. Contact Hawaiian Airlines Reservations to include the service dog in the passenger record. Early coordination ensures proper seating arrangements and boarding support.
- Prepare for In-Flight Accommodations. Ensure that the service dog fits within the handler’s foot space without obstructing aisles or exit rows. The dog must remain leashed or harnessed at all times and must not occupy a seat. No pet carrier is required for qualified service animals.
Handlers are responsible for ensuring their service dog behaves appropriately in public settings. Aggression, excessive barking, or loss of control disqualifies the animal from travel.
Do you Need to Notify Hawaiian Airlines in Advance for Flying with a Service Dog?
Yes, advance notification is required when flying with a service dog on Hawaiian Airlines. The airline mandates that travelers submit the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before departure to confirm the service dog’s health, training, and behavior compliance. For flights over eight hours, the Relief Attestation Form must also be submitted within the same timeframe. Notification ensures seating arrangements meet accessibility guidelines and prevent disruptions to cabin safety. Health certificates are not required for service dogs on interisland flights within Hawaii; however, a valid veterinary health certificate is mandatory when traveling to or from North America.
Do Service Dogs Fly for Free with Hawaiian Airlines?
Yes, service dogs travel for free on Hawaiian Airlines when accompanying qualified individuals with disabilities. Under Rule 10 of the airline’s Contract of Carriage, trained service dogs are accepted in the cabin without any transport fee. This policy aligns with DOT regulations and applies uniformly on both domestic and international flights, even long-haul journeys, provided that required documentation (Service Animal Air Transportation Form and, for flights over 8 hours, the Relief Attestation Form) is submitted at least 48 hours before departure. Operators of service dogs must ensure the animal remains leashed or harnessed, behaves properly during all phases of travel, and does not block aisles, exit rows, or emergency equipment.
Are There Breed Restrictions for Service Dogs on Hawaiian Airlines?
No, Hawaiian Airlines does not impose breed-specific restrictions for service dogs. Any dog, regardless of breed, that meets the federal definition of a Service Dog and behaves appropriately is permitted to travel, provided it doesn’t pose a safety, health, or size-related concern. Under Hawaiian Airlines’ travelling with pets protocols, any animal that disrupts cabin safety or exceeds space limitations is denied boarding. This approach means breeds traditionally restricted by other carriers face no automatic exclusion, as long as training and behavior requirements are satisfied. All service dogs must comply with the airline’s general behavior, control, and age standards and remain under the handler’s direction throughout the journey.
Can you Bring More than One Service Dog on a Hawaiian Airlines flight?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines permits up to two service dogs per person on flights to and from the United States. Both domestic and international travelers are allowed to travel with two dogs trained to perform specific tasks for a qualified individual with a disability, free of charge and without carrier restrictions. Additional animals beyond two are considered pets and must follow standard pet travel rules under Hawaiian Airlines traveling with pets regulations or be transported via cargo. Each service dog must remain leashed or harnessed, stay under the handler’s control, and not block aisles or emergency exits.
Are There Size Restrictions to Fly with a Service Dog on Hawaiian Airlines?
Hawaiian Airlines does not impose strict size limits on service dogs. However, the animal must fit within the handler’s foot space in the cabin. According to the Hawaiian airline’s service dog policy, the dog must remain leashed or harnessed and stay either at the handler’s feet or in adjacent floor space if available. If the dog cannot be safely accommodated in the assigned seat area, Hawaiian Airlines will make reasonable efforts to relocate the passenger to a seat with adequate space. While cargo travel is available for pets, it is not used for service animals unless absolutely necessary. This policy ensures compliance with federal guidelines while prioritizing the safety, comfort, and dignity of service dog teams onboard.
Can Hawaiian Airlines Deny a Service Animal?
Yes, Hawaiian Airlines does deny service animals if they fail to meet federal and airline-specific requirements. Under the U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines, airlines are not obligated to accept a service dog that exhibits aggressive or disruptive behavior, lacks required documentation, or appears not to be under the control of its handler. Hawaiian Airlines only accepts trained dogs as service animals and does not recognize emotional support animals in this category. A completed DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form must be submitted in advance to confirm eligibility and compliance with behavior and health standards.
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