Hawaiian Airlines: Pet Policy

What methods of transport does Hawaiian Airlines provide for my pet?

  • Travel in the passenger cabin.
  • Checked as baggage in pressurized and temperature controlled area of your aircraft.
  • Shipped as cargo in pressurized and temperature controlled area.

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel in the passenger cabin:

  • You are traveling on an inter-island flight.
  • Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel, under the seat for the entire flight.
  • Only domesticated pets are allowed.
  • The kennel is specifically made for animal carriage and can fit under the seat in front of you.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).

Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?

Pets that meet the following qualifications can travel as checked baggage:

  • Your pet can comfortably remain in its kennel for the entire flight.
  • Only domesticated pets are allowed.
  • The kennel meets all requirements (see below for more information) and the combined weight of the animal and kennel does not exceed 70 lb/32 kg.
  • Your pet has all necessary health documents required by your destination (see below for more information).
  • You are not traveling on a direct flight to Maui.

Does my pet qualify to be shipped as cargo?

If your pet does not meet the requirements for travel in the cabin or as checked baggage, or you would like you pet to travel unaccompanied, contact Hawaiian Airlines Cargo at 1-877-HA-CARGO (422-2746) for more information.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

As fees vary depending on kennel size, weight, destination and method of transport, contact Hawaiian Airlines directly.

What are the kennel requirements?

In addition to the size and weight maximums, the USDA and Hawaiian Airlines require that kennels meet the following requirements:

  • Be leak-proof and escape-proof.
  • Be properly ventilated, but not allow any part of the animal from protruding outside of the container.
  • Provide enough room for the animal to stand and turn around.
  • Be made of metal, wood, or a hard plastic/composite.
  • Contain absorbent material or litter.
  • Have functional handles on the kennel's exterior to prevent tilting and any direct contact with the animals.
  • Be closed securely, but not locked.
  • Have labels with the words "Live Animal" in letters at least 1-inch tall on the crate's top and on at least one side.
  • Have upright arrow labels indicating kennel's correct position.

What health documentation is required?

A health certificate, issued from a licensed veterinarian, within 10 days of the day of departure from the originating city is required. A rabies certificate may also be required. Passengers should consult their veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture to ensure that their animal will comply with all requirements.

Is there a quarantine period in Hawaii?

Hawaii does have some of the strictest animal import regulations and if your pet does not meet inspection, the animal can be quarantined for up to 120 days.

Are there any other restrictions?

Hawaiian Airlines can refuse to transport an animal due to illness, aggressive behavior, poor kenneling, or extreme temperatures at origin, transfer, or destination airports.

Stricter regulations for short-nosed dogs and cats will apply.

Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.