Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines is the flag carrier and the largest airline in the U.S. state of Hawaii, celebrated for bringing the "Aloha Spirit" to the skies. With a history dating back to 1929, it has established itself as a premier carrier connecting the island chain to the U.S. mainland, Asia, and the South Pacific. Travelers consistently rate the airline highly for its punctuality, safety record, and the authentic island-style hospitality provided by its dedicated crew.

Connecting the Islands and Beyond
Hawaiian Airlines operates an extensive network that serves as a vital lifeline for residents and visitors alike. Its frequent inter-island flights make island hopping easy, connecting the main hub to popular destinations such as Kahului on Maui, Kailua-Kona on the Big Island, and Hilo. Beyond the archipelago, the airline offers robust connections to major U.S. West Coast gateways. Key cities in the network include Seattle, which serves as a major point of connection, as well as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. The route map also extends to Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Vancouver, catering to both leisure and business travelers.

Service and Fleet
The airline is renowned for its "Mea Ho‘okipa" (I am host) philosophy, offering complimentary meals—a rarity on U.S. domestic routes—featuring island-inspired cuisine. The fleet is modern and efficient, primarily consisting of Airbus A330 and A321neo aircraft for long-haul routes, and Boeing 717s for short inter-island hops. Recent additions include the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, enhancing comfort on longer flights to destinations like Santa Ana and San Jose.

Safety and Excellence
Hawaiian Airlines boasts one of the most impressive safety records in the aviation industry, having never experienced a fatal hull loss accident in its long history. This dedication to safety, combined with consistently high on-time performance ratings, has earned the carrier numerous awards and a loyal customer base. Whether flying a short hop between islands or a long-haul journey across the Pacific, passengers can expect a safe, reliable, and welcoming experience.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, connecting with Hawaiian Airlines is primarily handled through their international customer service channels. While the airline does not maintain a direct local ticket office in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, their global support team is available 24/7 to assist with reservations, flight changes, and general inquiries in English.

Official Website
https://www.hawaiianairlines.com

Contact Information
For the most direct assistance from the UAE, it is recommended to use the international support line. International calling rates may apply.

• International Customer Service (UAE): +1-312-279-7761
• US Toll-Free Reservations: 1-800-367-5320 (May not be accessible from all UAE networks)
• Ticket Booking: Bookings can be made via the official website or by calling the international number above.
• Mobile App: Hawaiian Airlines App (Available on iOS App Store and Google Play)

Social Media
Stay updated with the latest news and island inspiration through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Hawaiian Airlines
• X (Twitter): @HawaiianAir
• Instagram: @HawaiianAirlines

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates
Currently, Hawaiian Airlines does not have a dedicated physical office or walk-in service desk in the United Arab Emirates. All ticketing and support services are managed centrally through their online platforms and international call centers.

24/7 Support
The international customer service line (+1-312-279-7761) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ensuring that passengers in the UAE can receive assistance regardless of the time zone difference.

Preparing for your trip with Hawaiian Airlines requires knowing what you can bring along. The airline generally permits passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item into the cabin. The personal item, such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack, must fit securely under the seat in front of you. The carry-on bag must fit in the overhead bin and typically has a maximum weight limit of 25 pounds (11.5 kg), which is a stricter policy than many other U.S. carriers, so it is wise to pack light for the cabin. The maximum dimensions for the carry-on are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm).

For checked luggage, the allowance varies by fare class and route. On flights between the Hawaiian Islands and North American cities like Seattle or Los Angeles, Main Cabin guests usually pay a fee for the first and second checked bags. Each standard checked bag must not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg) in weight and 62 linear inches (157 cm) in size (length + width + height). Passengers traveling in First Class generally enjoy a complimentary baggage allowance of two checked bags, with a higher weight limit often applied.

If your luggage exceeds standard limits, excess baggage fees will apply. These charges are categorized by weight—typically for bags between 51-70 pounds and 71-100 pounds—and by size for oversized items. Bags weighing more than 100 pounds (45 kg) are generally not accepted. To avoid unexpected costs at the airport, it is highly recommended to weigh your bags before leaving home and to pay for any known extra baggage online in advance.

Given Hawaii's outdoor lifestyle, the airline has specific policies for special items. Surfboards, paddleboards, and kiteboards are accepted but are subject to a specific handling fee per board, provided they meet length restrictions. Golf clubs and bicycles are also welcome when packed in appropriate travel cases. Musical instruments can be carried on board if they meet carry-on rules; larger instruments like cellos or guitars may need to be checked or have a separate seat purchased for them.

For safety and compliance, certain items are restricted or prohibited. Hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, and loose lithium batteries are forbidden in checked luggage. A crucial step for travelers flying from Hawaii to the U.S. mainland is the USDA Agriculture Inspection. All checked bags must be screened at the airport before check-in to ensure no prohibited fruits, plants, or pests are transported. Be sure to declare any agricultural items to avoid fines.

To pack efficiently, place heavy items at the bottom of your suitcase near the wheels for better balance. Use packing cubes to organize clothes and maximize space. Since baggage fees for inter-island flights are lower than transpacific ones, consider consolidating luggage if you are island hopping between destinations like Honolulu and Kahului. Always attach a sturdy ID tag to your bags and keep medication, travel documents, and valuables in your personal item.

Pet Travel Policy

Hawaiian Airlines understands that pets are cherished family members and welcomes domesticated dogs, cats, and household birds on its flights. While the airline strives to make the journey as comfortable as possible, traveling to the islands involves strict adherence to State of Hawaii agricultural and quarantine laws. The policies vary significantly depending on whether you are flying between the islands or arriving from the mainland.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small dogs and cats are permitted to travel in the passenger cabin on most flights, provided they can travel safely and comfortably in an approved carrier. This option is popular for flights to destinations like Honolulu or short inter-island hops.

• Carrier Dimensions: Soft-sided carriers are recommended with maximum dimensions of 16" x 10" x 9.5" (40 x 25 x 24 cm).
• Weight Limits: The total weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 25 lbs (11 kg).
• Allowed Animals: Only dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.
• Passenger Limits: Each passenger is limited to one carrier, though one carrier may hold two puppies or kittens of the same breed/litter if they fit comfortably.
• Restrictions: Pets are not allowed in First Class on long-haul aircraft (like the Airbus A330) due to seat design constraints.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that are too large for the cabin but meet standard baggage weight limits may travel in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo compartment. This service is often used for travel between Hawaii and cities on the US mainland such as Seattle or Los Angeles, subject to seasonal weather restrictions.

• Container Requirements: Kennels must be rigid, hard-shelled (plastic or metal), and secured with metal bolts. Wire or collapsible cages are not allowed.
• Weight and Size: The combined weight of the pet and kennel must not exceed 70 lbs (32 kg).
• Temperature Restrictions: Pets are not accepted as checked baggage if the temperature at any point in the itinerary is below 20°F (-7°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
• Documentation: A valid health certificate and compliance with strict checklist items are mandatory at check-in.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

For animals exceeding weight limits or for unaccompanied pets, Hawaiian Airlines Cargo services must be utilized. This is also the required method for certain bird species or whenever the pet cannot be accommodated as checked baggage.

• Requirement: Mandatory for pets + kennel weighing over 70 lbs (32 kg).
• Booking: Must be arranged separately through the cargo department, not the reservations line.
• Special Handling: Offers additional care and monitoring for larger animals or complex itineraries.

Required Documentation

Traveling to Hawaii requires meticulous preparation due to the state's rabies-free status. Failure to provide correct documents can result in lengthy quarantine for your pet.

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 14 days of travel (shorter windows may apply for inter-island travel).
• Rabies Vaccination Certificates: Two original certificates documenting two separate vaccinations are typically required for entry into Hawaii.
• Microchip: An electronic microchip is mandatory for identification.
• Neighbor Island Inspection Permit: Required for pets flying directly to islands other than Oahu, such as Maui (Kahului) or the Big Island (Kailua-Kona).

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged per segment and vary based on the destination and method of transport.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately $35 USD for inter-island flights; $125 USD for flights between Hawaii and North America.
• Cargo Hold (Checked) Fee: Approximately $60 USD for inter-island flights; $225 USD for flights between Hawaii and North America.
• Direct Release Fees: Airport quarantine fees in Honolulu are separate and payable upon arrival.

Preparation Tips

To ensure a smooth journey for your furry companion, consider these preparation steps:

• Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in their travel crate weeks before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Hydration: Attach a water dish to the inside of the crate door so it can be filled without opening the kennel.
• Feeding: Avoid a heavy meal right before flying; feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours prior to departure.
• Absorbent Lining: Line the bottom of the carrier with absorbent puppy pads or a towel.

Restrictions

Certain animals and breeds face travel restrictions to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

• Prohibited Breeds: Short-nosed (brachycephalic) dog and cat breeds, such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persian cats, are often restricted or discouraged from traveling in the cargo hold due to potential respiratory issues.
• Prohibited Animals: Dangerous wild animals, certain reptiles, and arachnids are not permitted.
• Exceptions: Fully trained service animals assisting passengers with disabilities are generally exempt from cabin fees and carrier requirements, though they must still meet destination entry requirements.

Note: Pet travel rules, especially regarding Hawaii's quarantine laws and airline embargoes, are subject to change. It is strongly recommended to contact Hawaiian Airlines directly and consult the State of Hawaii Animal Industry Division website before booking your trip.

HawaiianMiles Program

Hawaiian Airlines offers a rewarding loyalty program called HawaiianMiles, designed to offer exceptional value to frequent flyers visiting the islands. One of the program's most distinctive and traveler-friendly features is that the miles you earn never expire, giving you the flexibility to save up for a dream vacation without the pressure of a deadline.

Membership Tiers

The program offers elite status levels known as "Pualani" (Heavenly Flower), which provide increasing privileges to loyal customers.

• HawaiianMiles Member: The entry-level tier offering access to discounted member fares, the ability to pool miles with a Hawaiian Airlines credit card, and access to exclusive partner offers.
• Pualani Gold: Achieved after flying a set number of segments or miles; benefits include priority check-in, complimentary upgrades to Preferred Seats, priority security screening at select airports, and a 50% bonus on earned miles.
• Pualani Platinum: The top-tier status offering the highest level of service, including complimentary upgrades to Extra Comfort seats, two free checked bags, priority baggage handling, and a 100% bonus on miles earned.

Earning Miles

HawaiianMiles stands out in the industry by largely sticking to a distance-based earning model for main cabin tickets, rather than a purely revenue-based one.

• Flights: Passengers typically earn one mile for every actual mile flown on Hawaiian Airlines flights, ensuring fair rewards for long journeys to destinations like Seattle or Los Angeles.
• Airline Partners: Travelers can earn miles when flying with specific partner airlines, expanding earning potential beyond the Hawaiian network.
• Hotels and Car Rentals: Miles can be accumulated by booking stays with major hotel chains or renting vehicles through partner agencies like Avis and Budget.
• Everyday Purchases: Using a co-branded Hawaiian Airlines credit card allows members to earn miles on daily shopping, dining, and gas purchases.
• Shopping and Dining: The HawaiianMiles marketplace allows members to earn bonus points when shopping at participating local and online retailers.

Redeeming Miles

Turning accumulated miles into travel experiences is straightforward, with options ranging from simple flights to luxurious upgrades.

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for one-way or round-trip tickets on Hawaiian Airlines to any destination in their network, such as Honolulu or Maui, with no blackout dates.
• Flight Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Main Cabin to Business Class or First Class for a more comfortable journey across the Pacific.
• Partner Travel: Miles can be used to book award travel on partner airlines, opening up destinations across Asia, Australia, and the US mainland.
• Non-Flight Rewards: Points can be exchanged for hotel stays, car rentals, gift cards, or even donated to local charities in Hawaii.

Alliance and Partnerships

Hawaiian Airlines is not a member of the three major global airline alliances (Star Alliance, oneworld, or SkyTeam), but it maintains robust individual partnerships.

• Global Partners: The airline has codeshare and frequent flyer agreements with carriers such as Japan Airlines, JetBlue, Virgin Australia, and Korean Air.
• Interline Agreements: Broad interline relationships allow for seamless baggage transfer and ticketing with numerous other international airlines.

How to Join

Becoming a member is a quick and free process designed to get you earning immediately.

• Online Registration: Travelers can sign up instantly by visiting the official Hawaiian Airlines website and completing the enrollment form.
• Instant Number: New members receive their HawaiianMiles number immediately, which can be added to existing reservations to start earning points right away.

Service Classes and Cabins

Hawaiian Airlines brings the warmth of the islands to the skies with distinct cabin classes designed to suit different travel needs and budgets. Whether you are flying a short inter-island hop or a long-haul journey from the mainland, the airline's signature hospitality is a constant feature.

Main Cabin (Economy)

The Main Cabin offers a welcoming environment where the vacation begins the moment you step on board. Unlike many other carriers, Hawaiian Airlines provides complimentary meals on all transpacific flights between Hawaii and North American gateways such as Seattle, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Seats are ergonomically designed for comfort, and passengers can enjoy a selection of island-inspired beverages.

Extra Comfort

For travelers seeking more personal space, the Extra Comfort section provides a significant upgrade. Located near the front of the Main Cabin, these seats offer up to 5 inches of additional legroom, priority boarding, and personal power outlets. On international and select long-haul flights, passengers in this section also receive an amenity kit, making the journey to destinations like Honolulu even more relaxing.

First Class and Premium Cabin

The premium experience varies by aircraft but always focuses on luxury and relaxation. On the Airbus A330 and the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner, the Premium Cabin features fully lie-flat seats that fold into 180-degree beds, ideal for overnight flights. Enclosed "Leihōkū Suites" on the Dreamliner offer enhanced privacy. On shorter routes using the Airbus A321neo or Boeing 717, First Class passengers enjoy wider recliner seats, generous legroom, and dedicated overhead bin space.

In-Flight Dining

Hawaiian Airlines distinguishes itself with its award-winning culinary program. It is currently the only major U.S. airline to offer complimentary hot meals to all guests in the Main Cabin on transpacific flights. The menus are created by top local chefs and feature pan-Asian and Hawaiian fusion cuisine.

• Main Cabin: Includes a complimentary meal and non-alcoholic beverages. Wine and beer are often complimentary on international flights, while available for purchase on North American routes.
• Premium Cabins: Guests are treated to a curated dining experience with multiple courses, served on distinct dinnerware, accompanied by a selection of premium wines and signature cocktails like the Koloa Rum Mai Tai.
• Pau Hana Cart: For a small fee, Economy passengers can purchase additional snacks from the "Pau Hana" cart, which is stocked with local island treats like macadamia nuts and chips.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Staying entertained while crossing the Pacific is easy with Hawaiian's varied entertainment options. The systems differ depending on the aircraft type.

• Wide-body Aircraft (A330, B787): Seatback monitors offer a wide library of on-demand movies, TV shows, and games. The content includes a special "Hana Hou!" channel showcasing Hawaiian music and culture.
• Narrow-body Aircraft (A321neo): To maximize space, these aircraft rely on streaming entertainment. Passengers can download the Hawaiian Airlines app before the flight to stream content directly to their own smartphones or tablets.
• Boeing 717: As these planes operate short inter-island flights (often under 45 minutes) between cities like Kahului and Hilo, extensive entertainment systems are not typically provided, though the scenic views often suffice.

Special Services

Hawaiian Airlines is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers.

• Keiki (Children): Families are welcomed with open arms. The airline offers child-friendly entertainment options, and bassinets are available on certain international aircraft for infants, subject to reservation and availability.
• Accessibility: Comprehensive assistance is available for passengers with disabilities. This includes wheelchair service at airports like San Diego or Phoenix, as well as assistance with boarding and deplaning. The airline recommends requesting these services at least 48 hours in advance.
• Unaccompanied Minors: A dedicated service is available for children traveling alone, ensuring their safety from check-in to the handover at their destination.

Hawaiian Airlines connects travelers to a variety of destinations, bridging the gap between the Hawaiian Islands and major cities on the US mainland. Based on current flight frequency data, the airline maintains a significant operational presence in Seattle, which serves as a key base for many of its routes alongside its extensive inter-island network.

Securing the best fares with Hawaiian Airlines often requires booking well in advance. Generally, travelers should aim to reserve their tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks prior to the departure date. For peak travel periods, such as school holidays or the winter season, booking even earlier is advisable to lock in lower prices. If your travel dates are flexible, consider flying mid-week; flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer better value than weekend departures. Keeping an eye on fares for popular routes, such as the frequent connections between Kahului and Honolulu, can help you identify price trends and snag a deal when prices drop.

To enhance your travel experience, download the official mobile app. It is a powerful tool that allows you to book flights, track your flight status in real-time, and manage your itinerary effortlessly. Use the app or the website for online check-in, which typically opens 24 hours before takeoff. This allows you to select or change your seat and download your mobile boarding pass, saving you valuable time at the airport whether you are departing from Seattle or heading toward Kailua-Kona.

Comfort is key on longer flights, so review the seat map as early as possible. Hawaiian Airlines offers various seating options, and selecting your spot in advance ensures you sit with your travel companions or secure extra legroom. Finally, consider adding travel insurance to your booking. This provides essential coverage for unexpected events, such as trip cancellations or lost baggage. Whether you are flying from Los Angeles to San Francisco or catching a connecting flight to Phoenix, insurance offers peace of mind throughout your journey.

From Inter-Island Airways to Global Carrier

The story of Hawaiian Airlines began on January 30, 1929, under the name Inter-Island Airways. Founded by Stanley C. Kennedy, a World War I Navy pilot, the airline launched with a vision to connect the islands of the archipelago in a way that ocean liners could not. The inaugural flight took place on November 11, 1929, departing from Honolulu and landing in Hilo, with a stop on Maui. Utilizing a fleet of Sikorsky S-38 amphibian planes, the carrier revolutionized local travel, turning day-long boat trips into short, scenic flights.

In 1941, the company officially changed its name to Hawaiian Airlines, signaling a broader ambition. The introduction of the Douglas DC-3 brought greater comfort and reliability, allowing the airline to serve as a critical transport network during World War II. Throughout the post-war era, the airline continued to modernize, introducing pressurized Convair 340s in the 1950s, which offered passengers a smoother and quieter ride over the Pacific waters.

Entering the Jet Age

The 1960s marked a significant turning point with the arrival of the jet age. Hawaiian Airlines introduced the McDonnell Douglas DC-9, drastically reducing flight times between islands. This era fueled a tourism boom, making destinations like Kahului more accessible than ever before. However, the most transformative milestone occurred in the 1980s. Until then, the airline had focused primarily on inter-island service, but in 1984, it launched its first scheduled transpacific flights using McDonnell Douglas DC-8 aircraft, connecting Hawaii to the US West Coast.

This expansion paved the way for wide-body aircraft like the Lockheed L-1011 TriStar and later the McDonnell Douglas DC-10. These larger jets allowed the carrier to increase capacity and range, opening up vital routes to major mainland hubs. Cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle became key gateways, bringing millions of visitors to the islands and allowing residents to travel effortlessly to the continent.

Fleet Evolution and Modern Expansion

As the new millennium approached, Hawaiian Airlines undertook a massive fleet renewal program to enhance fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The aging DC-10s were replaced by Boeing 767s, which were subsequently succeeded by the modern Airbus A330-200s. These aircraft became the backbone of the long-haul fleet, featuring lie-flat seating in the premium cabins and advanced entertainment systems. For the shorter, high-frequency routes between islands, the sturdy and reliable Boeing 717 became the aircraft of choice.

In recent years, the airline has continued to innovate with the introduction of the Airbus A321neo. This narrow-body aircraft is perfectly suiting for mid-range markets, opening up direct non-stop service to smaller West Coast cities such as San Jose and Long Beach. The latest chapter in their fleet history includes the arrival of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, a state-of-the-art aircraft designed to offer superior cabin pressure and humidity, reducing jet lag on long journeys to destinations like Phoenix.

A Legacy of Connection

Throughout its history, Hawaiian Airlines has remained resilient, navigating economic shifts and industry changes without losing its unique identity. While many US carriers underwent complex mergers, Hawaiian largely maintained its independence for decades, focusing on organic growth and partnerships. It expanded its footprint well beyond the US, launching services to international destinations in Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, positioning Hawaii not just as a destination, but as a hub connecting East and West.

Today, the airline is recognized not just for its longevity but for its cultural commitment. From the early days of sightseeing flights over Honolulu to modern long-haul journeys from Vancouver or San Diego, Hawaiian Airlines has consistently prioritized the "Aloha Spirit," ensuring that the history of the company is deeply intertwined with the history and hospitality of the islands themselves.