Pet Policy Overview
Hawaiian Airlines is the primary carrier for pet travel to, from, and within the Hawaiian Islands, and for many routes it is the only realistic option. The airline accepts small dogs and cats in the cabin on inter-island flights and routes between Hawaii and the US mainland. Larger pets can travel as checked baggage on domestic routes. Hawaiian also operates a cargo service through Hawaiian Airlines Cargo for animals that exceed checked baggage limits. No pets are permitted on international routes in any class.
Key Details
Pet Fee
$100 cabin / $200 checked (as of Jan 2026)
Pro Tip
Hawaii is the only rabies-free US state and enforces extremely strict animal import rules. All pets entering Hawaii must complete a pre-arrival quarantine programme — failure to do so results in up to 120 days mandatory quarantine at the owner's expense. Start the Direct Airport Release (DAR) paperwork at least 4 months before travel. Upon landing at Honolulu (HNL), you must be escorted to the Animal Quarantine Facility by a Hawaiian Airlines agent — do not leave the gate without them.
Restrictions
Pets are completely banned from all international routes. No cabin pets on flights from Japan. Not permitted in First Class on Hawaii-mainland routes, bulkhead, or exit row seats. Snub-nosed breeds are strongly discouraged due to breathing risks. Arrivals at HNL outside 8:30 AM–4:30 PM may require overnight stays at the quarantine facility. Flights to Lihue, Kahului, and Kona require a Neighbour Island Inspection Permit (NIIP).