Traveling with Your ESA on Hawaiian Airlines: What’s Changed

As of January 11, 2021, Hawaiian Airlines no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) as service animals. ESAs are now treated as pets and must follow the airline's pet policies. Trained service dogs, however, are still allowed in the cabin for free, as long as they meet specific behavior and training standards. Be sure to inform the airline at least 48 hours before your flight and provide the necessary documentation.

Read more to learn about pet travel guidelines and service dog requirements.

Hawaiian Airlines Service Dog Policy - Key Information

Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), Hawaiian Airlines allows trained service dogs to accompany passengers with disabilities at no additional charge. These dogs must be trained to perform specific tasks related to the passenger's disability, such as guiding, alerting to medical conditions, or providing mobility assistance.

However, it's important to follow the airline's guidelines to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Traveling with Service Dogs
If you’re traveling with a service dog, they are welcome in the cabin, free of charge, as long as they meet the necessary training requirements. Hawaiian Airlines accepts only dogs that are trained to assist with specific disability-related tasks.
Necessary Paperwork
Before your flight, you’ll need to provide documentation verifying your service dog’s training and health. Hawaiian Airlines may also ask for confirmation that your dog can manage the flight duration without any accidents or discomfort.
Behavior Expectations
For the safety and comfort of all passengers, service dogs must remain under control at all times. Any dog that is disruptive or poses a safety risk may be denied boarding.
Where Service Dogs Can Sit
Service dogs must sit in the space at your feet, without obstructing the aisle or seats. Hawaiian Airlines permits only one service dog per passenger.
Advance Notice
To ensure a smooth experience, Hawaiian Airlines requires that you notify them at least 48 hours before your flight if you plan to travel with a service dog. This gives the airline enough time to review the necessary documentation and make any necessary seating arrangements.

By following these simple guidelines, you and your service dog can travel with ease and comfort on Hawaiian Airlines.

Safe Cargo Travel for Pets and ESAs on Hawaiian Airlines

If your ESA or pet is too large to travel in the cabin, Hawaiian Airlines offers cargo travel options. Larger animals can travel via Hawaiian Airlines Cargo or the checked baggage compartment, depending on size and weight. Pets must be in airline-approved kennels for safe travel.

Cargo travel fees depend on the pet’s size, weight, and route, and it’s important to book in advance. Hawaiian Airlines has temperature restrictions and may require a Letter of Acclimation for pets traveling in certain conditions. Ensure all health and safety requirements are met for a smooth journey.

Essential Hawaiian Airlines Pet and Service Dog Guidelines

Hawaiian Airlines has clear guidelines in place to make sure both you and your pet or service dog have a smooth and comfortable journey. Here's what you need to know before you fly.

About Service Dogs
Hawaiian Airlines welcomes trained service dogs that assist passengers with disabilities. These dogs can travel in the cabin for free. Just be sure to inform the airline at least 48 hours before your flight and provide any required documentation, like proof of the dog's training and health.
Bringing Your Pet on Board
If you're bringing a small pet, like a dog, cat, or bird, they can travel with you in the cabin as long as they’re in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. Hawaiian Airlines has specific size requirements for these carriers, so be sure to check. Fees for cabin pets vary depending on your route, so it’s best to check ahead.
Rules For Larger Pets
If your pet is too large to fit in the cabin, they can travel as checked baggage. This requires an advance booking and a kennel that meets Hawaiian Airlines' standards. It's also important to check your pet's health status and make sure they are fit to fly.
Breed Restrictions
Certain breeds, especially brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs like bulldogs and pugs, may not be allowed due to safety concerns. It’s a good idea to double-check the breed restrictions before you book your flight.
Pet Carrier Guidelines
Your pet’s carrier needs to meet Hawaiian Airlines’ size restrictions. For cabin travel, the carrier should be no larger than 17 inches x 11 inches x 9.5 inches, allowing your pet enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Traveling Within the U.S. vs. International
For domestic flights, pets are welcome on most Hawaiian Airlines routes, including those between the mainland and Hawaii. If you’re flying internationally, make sure you have the necessary health certificates and vaccination records. Some international destinations may also have quarantine requirements, so plan ahead.
Documenting Your Pet or Service Dog
Pets typically require health certificates and vaccination records, whether you're flying domestically or internationally. For service dogs, Hawaiian Airlines will need documentation showing the dog's training and health, so don’t forget to have that ready when you book your flight.
Let Hawaiian Airlines Know in Advance
It’s important to notify Hawaiian Airlines at least 48 hours before your flight if you're bringing a pet or service dog. This helps them ensure there’s enough space and that all your documents are in order.
Keeping Things Safe and Comfortable
Hawaiian Airlines requires that all pets and service dogs be healthy and well-behaved. If your animal seems unfit to travel, the airline may refuse boarding. They want to make sure every passenger, including your pet, is safe and comfortable during the flight.

Hawaiian Airlines ESA and Pet Travel: Key Policy Updates

Here are the main updates to Hawaiian Airlines' ESA and pet policies:

No More ESAs on Hawaiian Airlines
Since January 11, 2021, Hawaiian Airlines no longer accepts emotional support animals as service animals. ESAs must now travel as pets and follow the airline's pet policies, including size, carrier requirements, and applicable fees.
Pets Are Welcome in the Cabin
Hawaiian Airlines allows small pets, including dogs, cats, and birds, to travel in the cabin. Pets must fit in an approved carrier that can be placed under the seat. Pet fees for in-cabin travel are $35 per pet for domestic flights and $175 for international flights.
Service Dogs Fly for Free
Hawaiian Airlines still allows trained service dogs to fly free of charge. These service dogs must be trained to assist passengers with disabilities and must meet the airline's behavior and health requirements. You are required to notify the airline at least 48 hours before your flight.
Check-In Requirements for Larger Pets
Larger pets that cannot fit in the cabin must travel as checked baggage, subject to size and weight restrictions. You’ll need to book in advance, and fees for checked pets vary depending on the route.
Inform the Airline in Advance
To ensure smooth travel with pets or service dogs, Hawaiian Airlines recommends notifying them at least 48 hours before your flight. This ensures compliance with all requirements and a hassle-free experience.

Key Takeaways: Hawaiian Airlines ESA Policy

Hawaiian Airlines no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) for travel.
Pets can travel in the cabin for a fee, depending on the route, and must fit in an approved carrier under the seat.
Larger pets can be transported as cargo, with fees based on size, weight, and route.
Trained service dogs are allowed in the cabin free of charge with required documentation.
Service dogs must meet health and behavior standards and remain under control during the flight.
Advance notification (48 hours) is required for all pets and service dogs.
For international travel, additional health certificates and vaccinations may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my service dog doesn’t meet the airline’s behavior standards?

If your service dog displays aggressive behavior or is disruptive during the flight, Hawaiian Airlines reserves the right to deny boarding. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and under control throughout the journey to avoid this issue.

What documents do I need to travel with my service dog?

You will need to provide documentation verifying your dog’s training and its role in assisting with your disability. This is required before boarding to ensure compliance with the airline’s guidelines.

Can my service dog fly in the cabin if the flight is longer than 8 hours?

Yes, service dogs can fly on longer flights, but if the flight exceeds 8 hours, Hawaiian Airlines requires additional documentation to verify that your dog can handle the extended duration without needing a bathroom break or causing discomfort.

Can I travel with a service dog if I have a layover or connecting flight?

Yes, you can travel with your service dog during layovers or connecting flights. Your service dog must remain under control and may be taken to designated relief areas if available. Be sure to plan for any necessary breaks during layovers.

What happens if my service dog’s health or behavior prevents it from traveling?

If your service dog is not in good health or displays aggressive behavior, Hawaiian Airlines may deny boarding. If the issue is resolved, you may be able to reschedule, but additional fees may apply.

Can I cancel or change my flight if my service dog or pet cannot travel?

If your service dog or pet cannot travel due to unforeseen circumstances, you may be able to change your flight, but additional charges or restrictions may apply depending on your ticket and the airline’s policies. Always check with Hawaiian Airlines for details.

How early should I arrive at the airport when traveling with a service dog or pet?

It’s a good idea to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours for international flights when traveling with a service dog or pet. This gives you enough time for check-in, documentation verification, and any additional procedures.

Are there specific check-in procedures for animals traveling with Hawaiian Airlines?

Yes, pets and service dogs should be checked in at the special services counter or designated pet check-in area. Be sure to have all required documentation ready, including your dog’s training certification, health records, and vaccination history.

What if my service dog or pet gets sick or needs medical attention during the flight?

If your service dog or pet is unwell during the flight, notify the flight attendants immediately. They may be able to assist you with basic care, but in more severe cases, the crew may arrange for medical attention upon landing.

Can I bring a health certificate for my service dog or pet?

While a health certificate is not always necessary for service dogs, it’s recommended to have one, especially for international flights. This ensures that your service dog or pet is fit for travel and complies with destination health regulations.