Hawaiian Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

Hawaiian Airlines is committed to making sure that each passenger, particularly those who need special assistance, has a relaxing and hassle-free journey. Hawaiian Airlines’ wheelchair assistance team understands how important accessibility is and goes the extra mile to support passengers with limited mobility. From curbside check-in to boarding and arrival, their experienced and amiable staff is prepared to assist you or a travel companion who needs wheelchair assistance. 

They provide individualized help tailored to your particular requirements so you may concentrate on relaxing and anticipating your adventure. Let us get into Hawaiian Airlines’ wheelchair and special assistance services at length. 

Overview of Hawaiian Airlines Wheelchair Assistance:

Hawaiian Airlines is dedicated to providing a safe, comfortable, and accessible travel experience for every passenger, including those with disabilities. In full compliance with the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) 14 CFR Part 382, the airline strictly prohibits discrimination based on disability. Hawaiian Airlines takes proactive measures to accommodate passengers with special needs by offering essential assistance throughout their journey. This includes helping travelers who use wheelchairs or mobility devices, ensuring their needs are met from check-in to arrival, and maintaining a respectful, inclusive environment for all guests on board.

What are the Complimentary Wheelchair Services Offered By Hawaiian Airlines?

Passengers who need Hawaiian Airlines’ wheelchair assistance are strongly encouraged to inform the airline in advance to ensure smooth and timely service. Personal wheelchairs, scooters, and other assistance devices are transported for free by the airline and are not included in the allotted baggage. Furthermore, trained staff assist with dismantling and reassembling these mobility aids. Hawaiian Airlines strives to make your journey as comfortable and hassle-free as possible by providing tailored, attentive support during your journey. 

In-Cabin Wheelchair Storage Solutions:

Hawaiian Airlines provides in-cabin storage for one collapsible manual wheelchair on each of its jet aircraft, available on a first-come, first-served basis during pre-boarding. For travelers with mobility needs, this practical choice guarantees better accessibility and convenience. Additional foldable wheelchairs can be kept under seats or in overhead bins if there is room. 

Up to two manual wheelchairs may be stored on some airplanes using a seat-strapping technique, provided it doesn’t hinder the comfort or space of other passengers. Hawaiian Airlines ‘ dedication to providing everyone with accessible and attentive travel experiences is reflected in these accommodations.

Hawaiian Airlines Checked Wheelchair Guidelines:

Non-collapsible manual wheelchairs and any battery-powered wheelchairs or scooters cannot be carried in the cabin. To ensure passenger safety and proper handling during the flight, these mobility aids are safely stored in the aircraft’s cargo hold.

Passengers may check their wheelchairs or scooters at two locations: the main ticket counter during initial check-in or at the departure gate before boarding. This flexibility ensures convenience while maintaining proper handling and a timely transportation procedure.

Understanding Hawaiian Airlines Battery-Powered Wheelchairs Rules:

Depending on the battery type, specific safety regulations and transportation guidelines must be followed to ensure safe handling and travel compliance.

Wet-Cell Batteries: 

These must be removed from the device before travel. Once removed, they should be packed in special containers provided by the airline to prevent leaks and ensure safe transport during the flight. If travelers do not possess proper boxes or packing materials, Hawaiian Airlines will provide the same for them. Initiatives are to be taken to safeguard the battery terminals from short circuits and exposure. 

Dry-Cell and Gel-Cell Batteries: 

These batteries are allowed to remain attached to devices during air travel. However, they must be disconnected, protected against potential short circuits, and securely fastened to ensure safety and compliance with airline regulations.

Lithium Batteries:

• Removable batteries (≤300 Wh) are allowed in carry-on baggage.
  
• Non-removable batteries over 100 Wh are prohibited.
  
• A maximum of one spare battery ≤300 Wh or two spares ≤160 Wh each may also be carried.

Explain Size Limitations by Aircraft:

To guarantee safe storage onboard, wheelchair dimensions must meet specific size restrictions determined by the aircraft type and configuration.

• A330 and A321 (North America/International): Max 39” height x 64” width.
  
• Boeing 717 (Interisland): Max 29” height x 32” width.

Hawaiian Airlines Additional Accessibility Services:

• Prosthetic devices, crutches, canes, and braces:

Passengers can transport prosthetic devices, crutches, canes, and braces free of charge. These items may be carried onboard as carry-on luggage if space permits, or can be checked in without incurring any additional baggage fees.

• Battery-powered wheelchair users:

Travelers using battery-powered wheelchairs are encouraged to complete and submit the Mobility Device Form prior to their trip. This helps the airline ensure safe handling and timely assistance. The Hawaiian Airlines wheelchair assistance form can be accessed through the provided link on the website. 

How to Contact Hawaiian Airlines for Wheelchair Assistance?

For further assistance, you may contact the U.S. Department of Transportation:

• Disability Hotline: 

Travelers with disabilities can use the wheelchair assistance contact number 1-800-778-4838 (Voice) or 1-800-455-9880 (TTY) for assistance or inquiries regarding air travel accessibility. Voice and TTY options ensure inclusive support for all passengers.

• Aviation Consumer Protection: 

Passengers can call this number, 202-366-2220 (Voice) or 202-366-0511 (TTY) to report air travel issues or concerns. The hotline helps enforce consumer rights and resolve airline service disputes effectively and promptly.

• Website: 

Visit this official U.S. Department of Transportation website www.transportation.gov/airconsumer for detailed air travel rights, complaint filing, and updates on airline regulations, safety standards, and consumer protection measures.

Your Guide to Traveling with a Personal Mobility Device On Hawaiian Airlines:

When traveling on a Hawaiian Airlines flight with a wheelchair or any other personal mobility device, here is what you should keep in mind. 

Advance Notice & Documentation:

Hawaiian Airlines’ wheelchair assistance team advises passengers traveling with personal mobility devices to inform their Reservations Department at least 48 hours before departure by calling 800-367-5320. To streamline assistance at the airport, travelers are also encouraged to complete a Wheelchair Description Form prior to check-in. This proactive step helps ensure smoother coordination and enhanced support throughout the journey.

Battery Guidelines for Mobility Devices:

The airline accepts mobility devices with several battery types:

• Removable lithium-ion batteries (up to 300Wh) must be removed and carried onboard.
  
• Non-removable lithium-ion batteries (up to 100Wh) may remain installed.
  
• Non-spillable, dry, gel, and NiMH batteries are accepted and can remain in the device.
  
• Spillable batteries may require removal and special handling.

You may also bring spare batteries (1 up to 300Wh or 2 up to 160Wh each), which must be safely packaged to prevent short-circuiting. However, hoverboards and e-bikes are not permitted due to safety concerns.

In-Cabin Wheelchair Stowage:

All Hawaiian Airlines aircraft can accommodate one manual, collapsible wheelchair in the cabin:

• A330 aircraft have a designated closet for onboard wheelchair storage.
  
• 717, A321, and 787 aircraft may secure the chair in the rear cabin, space permitting.
  

Requirements:

• Manual, foldable wheelchair
  
• Max size: 13” W x 36” H x 42” L
  
• Max weight: 50 lbs
  
• Request must be made before pre-boarding, and storage is available first-come, first-served.

Baggage Compartment Size Limits:

Aircraft limitations may affect how your device is transported:

• 717: 36”L x 24”W x 26”H
  
• A321: 40”L x 27”W x 30”H
  
• A330/787: 48”L x 32”W x 35”H
  

Devices that exceed these dimensions may not fit in the baggage hold, particularly on the 717 or A321. Notify Hawaiian Airlines early if your device is oversized.

At the Airport:

• Curbside Assistance:

Curbside Hawaiian Airlines special assistance is limited at the terminal. If you require help, it’s best to have someone accompany you and notify airline personnel inside. They can dispatch staff to assist you from the curb as needed.

• Early Arrival:

To ensure a smooth travel experience, arrive at the airport at least one hour earlier than your typical check-in time. This extra time allows for accessibility arrangements, mobility assistance, and avoids last-minute complications before boarding your flight.

• Check-In:

Mobility devices such as wheelchairs or scooters can be checked free of charge at the ticket counter or departure gate. Before handing them over, remove any loose items like seat cushions or keys and carry them onboard with you.

Boarding and In-Flight Assistance:

• Arriving at the gate ahead of time allows you to take advantage of pre-boarding privileges, ensuring a smoother boarding process and access to priority seating arrangements designed for passengers with special needs.
  
• If mobility assistance is required, inform airline staff in advance or at the gate so they can provide an aisle chair to help you safely and comfortably reach your assigned seat.
  
• Due to space limitations, personal wheelchairs aren’t permitted in the cabin during flight; however, compact aisle chairs are available to help passengers access the lavatory when needed during the journey.
  
• Since flight attendants are not trained or authorized to offer personal care, travelers requiring help with eating, toileting, or medication must be accompanied by someone who can assist them throughout the flight.

Upon Arrival:

Gate-checked devices are returned at the aircraft door; otherwise, they’ll be at baggage claim. Hawaiian Airlines’ special assistance staff can help escort you to your next destination within the terminal, but cannot accompany you beyond it or wait for long periods.

Hawaiian Airlines Special Assistance for Guests with Disabilities:

Other than wheelchair assistance services, there are other special assistance services as well provided by Hawaiian Airlines, and here are the ways to request the same. 

Steps to Request Special Assistance:

To ensure timely support, travelers are encouraged to request wheelchair assistance at least 48 hours in advance. This can be done by calling the Hawaiian Airlines Reservations Department at 800-367-5320. For guests with hearing or speech difficulties, dial 711 for relay services.

Day-of-Travel Assistance:

If you didn’t request assistance in advance, don’t worry. Simply approach any Hawaiian Airlines employee at the airport and let them know what you need—they are trained and ready to help.

Key Services for Guests with Mobility Needs:

Here are certain services provided by Hawaiian Airlines for guests with mobility needs. 

• Getting to and from the gate: 

Complimentary wheelchair service and airport escorts are available.

• Personal mobility devices: 

Hawaiian allows you to travel with your wheelchair, walker, cane, crutches, or prosthetic devices. These do not count against your carry-on limit. Pre-boarding is advised so the crew can help with stowage or gate-checking.

• In-flight mobility: 

Onboard wheelchairs are available to assist with movement inside the cabin. Note, however, that flight attendants cannot lift guests or assist inside the lavatory.

Accessibility on Specific Aircraft:

Specific aircraft provides additional services which you should know about: 

• Accessible Lavatories: 

Both the Airbus A330 and Boeing 787 aircraft offer accessible lavatories. On the A330, it’s located at the rear (behind seats 46CEG). On the 787, it’s located mid-cabin (behind seats 28DEF).

• 787 Business Class Seating Limitations: 

Only window seats (A and J) feature movable aisle armrests. Center seats (C and G) do not. Doorway widths may restrict accessibility—18 inches wide at seat level, and only 10 inches at foot level.

Curbside and Airport Arrival:

Curbside porter service is not available at most airports. If you need help from the curb, a companion should enter the terminal and alert Hawaiian Airlines staff, who will then send assistance.

Important Considerations and Limitations Regarding Hawaiian Airlines Special Assistance Services:

Hawaiian Airlines’ special assistance staff are not permitted to provide medical services, administer medication, assist in eating, or help inside restrooms. If a traveler has a severe cognitive or physical disability, a ticketed safety assistant may be required.

Group Travel and Additional Support:

If you’re traveling with a group of 10 or more passengers with disabilities, 48-hour advance notice is required. You can call the Reservations Department for arrangements.

Filing a Complaint or Seeking Further Help:

Every Hawaiian Airlines airport location has a Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) on-site during operating hours. These individuals are trained to address disability-related concerns. Post-travel concerns can be directed to Hawaiian Airlines’ Consumer Affairs Office.

Access to Disability Regulations:

You can request a copy of the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) at any airport ticket counter, through the airline’s Consumer Affairs Office, or via the Department of Transportation at transportation.gov/airconsumer.

Traveling with Children on Hawaiian Airlines:

If you’re flying with a child or infant, Hawaiian Airlines offers special assistance services to ensure a safe, comfortable, and smooth journey for your entire family.

Making a Reservation for Your Child:

To book travel for a child or infant, you can contact Hawaiian Airlines’ Reservations department directly. This ensures your child’s needs are correctly noted and all travel regulations are met, especially if traveling with a lap child under the age of 2.

Flying with a Lap Child (Under the Age of 2):

Parents may choose to hold their infant on their lap throughout the flight or purchase a separate seat and use a rear-facing car seat. Only one lap child is allowed per ticketed adult, and seating availability may affect the ability to use your car seat on board.

Important Lap Child Policies:

• No baggage or meal allowance
  
• Car seats may be brought onboard if space permits; otherwise checked at the gate
  
• Bassinets are available on most international flights (request in advance)
  
• Lap children fly free on Neighbor Island and North America routes; international flights incur 10% of the adult fare plus taxes.
• If traveling with two lap children, one must have a purchased seat.

Travel Restrictions & Required Documentation:

Infants under 7 days old may fly with physician approval. All children under 2 may fly as lap children or with a purchased seat.

Required documents:

• A birth certificate or a passport to verify age
  
• For international travel: a passport required, with exceptions for U.S. citizens traveling to American Samoa
  

Adults accompanying children must be at least 15 years old for domestic flights and 18 years old for international routes.

Traveling to American Samoa (PPG):

Special documentation is required:

• U.S. Citizens/Nationals: Round Trip ticket, birth certificate, Certificate of Identity, or military ID
  
• Foreign Nationals: Passport required
  

Baggage Information and Exemptions:

Lap children do not receive separate baggage allowances. However, the following items are accepted free of charge when checked in by the accompanying adult:

• Strollers (must be collapsible and under 50 lbs)
  
• Car seats
  
• Bassinets (for international flights by request)

Furthermore, you must remember that wagons do not qualify as strollers and are subject to standard baggage fees. Also, inflatable child beds and footrests are not permitted for use during flight.

Final Tips for a Smoother Journey  On Hawaiian Airlines When Traveling with Children:

Here are some points to note: 

• Contact Reservations early to arrange your child’s seat or bassinet
  
• Bring proper documents, especially for international flights
  
• Plan for limited baggage and in-flight services for lap children
  
• Confirm stroller and car seat regulations before departure

Traveling with Animals on Hawaiian Airlines:

Hawaiian Airlines offers several options designed to prioritize your animal’s safety and comfort. Here’s everything you need to know before flying with your furry friend.

In-Cabin Pet Travel:

Accepted Animals:
Small dogs and cats are welcome in the passenger cabin on select routes. Household birds are not accepted in-cabin but may travel as checked baggage.

Carrier Guidelines:
Your pet must travel in a soft-sided carrier not exceeding 17”L x 11”W x 9.5”H. Carriers are inspected at check-in, and pets must remain inside at all times during the flight. The carrier fits under the seat in front of you and cannot be placed on your lap or in an overhead bin.

Seating and Route Restrictions:

Pets are not allowed in the cabin on international flights or flights to/from PPG, JFK, BOS, and SLC. Passengers with pets may not sit in First Class (on Hawaii-North America routes), exit rows, or bulkhead seats.

Age and Quantity Limits:

Each guest may bring one carrier containing:

• One adult dog or cat, or
  
• Two puppies/kittens of the same breed (8 weeks–6 months old).
  

Check-In Process:

Self-service is not permitted as per the Hawaiian Airlines special assistance program. Check in at least 3 hours before departure at the front counter with printed documents ready. A special tag will be attached to the pet carrier once cleared.

Health Certificate Requirements:

• Hawaii-only travel: Not required
  
• Hawaii-North America: Required within 14 days of arrival
  
• For return flights, certificates may remain valid up to 30 days if booked under the same reservation.

Advance Notification:

Notify the Reservations Department at least 48 hours before travel by calling 1-800-367-5320.

Fees:

• Within Hawaii: $35
  
• Hawaii–North America: $125 (includes same-day inter-island connections)

Note on Strollers/Wagons:

Animal strollers are not gate-checked for free. They can be checked as baggage (fees apply) or brought as a carry-on if within size limits.

Pets as Checked Baggage:

Dogs, cats, and household birds are accepted in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold—on domestic routes only. Pets are not accepted on international flights (with limited exceptions for active-duty military).

Route & Seasonal Restrictions:

• Not accepted on international routes or flights to/from JFK, BOS, SLC
  
• Seasonal embargo: April 15–October 15, pets are not accepted from/to LAS, PHX, SJC, and SMF due to extreme weather.
  

Breed Limitations:

With Hawaiian Airlines, short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds are not allowed due to increased respiratory risk. Breeds include Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, Persians, and Shih Tzus, among others.

Environmental Conditions:

Pets are only accepted if ground temperatures at origin/destination are between 20°F and 85°F. An acclimation certificate is required for travel in temperatures from 20°F to 45°F.

Kennel Requirements:

• Must comply with USDA and Hawaiian Airlines regulations
  
• Max size: 36”L x 25”W x 28”H
  
• Max combined weight (pet + kennel): 70 lbs
  
• Kennel must allow your pet to stand and turn around
  
• Birds need to be kept in mosquito-proof kennels for entry into Hawaii
  

Animal Limit per Flight & Kennel:

• Limited pets per flight—first-booked, first-served
  
• One kennel per guest, which may hold:
  
  • One adult dog/cat
    
  • Two puppies or kittens (same breed, aged between eight weeks and 6 months)
    
  • Two adult or young birds (same breed, birds must be at least 14 days old)
    

Check-In Process:

Pets and their kennels must be inspected by an agent. Check in at least 3 hours before departure with printed health certificates.

Health Certificate Requirements:

• Within Hawaii: Not required
  
• Hawaii- North America: Required, dated within 14 days of arrival
  
• Return flights: Certificate valid up to 30 days if booked in the same reservation; otherwise, a new certificate is needed.
  

Fees:

• Within Hawaii: $60 per kennel
  
• Hawaii–North America: $225 per kennel (includes same-day interisland flights in same reservation)
  

Advance Booking Required:

Space is limited. Notify Hawaiian Airlines at least 48 hours in advance by calling 1-800-367-5320.

Travelling with Service Animals On Hawaiian Airlines 

A dog that has been specially trained to carry out duties or work for a qualified person with a disability is known as a service animal under federal law. Hawaiian Airlines’ special assistance strictly follows this definition. Under the airline’s normal pet policy, animals that provide emotional support, therapy, companionship, or are still in training are not eligible and are handled as pets.

These ineligible animals could go in one of two ways:

• in the cabin (if they comply with the pet policy), or
• as checked luggage.

Required Documentation and Advance Notice:

For tickets booked 48+ hours before departure:

• Submit the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours in advance.
  
• If your flight exceeds 8 hours, also submit the Service Animal Relief Attestation.
  
• Both forms can be submitted electronically through the “Make a Request” page on the Hawaiian Airlines website.
  

For tickets booked within 48 hours of departure:

• Submit hard copies of the required forms directly to a Hawaiian Airlines agent at the departure airport prior to boarding.
  

Forms must be completed and dated on or after the date of ticket purchase and only need to be submitted once per reservation.

Health Certificate Requirements for Travel to Hawaii:

The State of Hawaii requires a valid health certificate for any animal entering the state:

• Must be issued within 14 days prior to arrival in Hawaii.
  
• For roundtrip reservations, the certificate may be valid for up to 30 days if the same confirmation code is used.
  

No health certificate is required for inter-island flights or departures from Hawaii.

Read Also: Scoot Airlines Wheelchair Assistance

Service Animal Acceptance and Onboard Policies:

Verification at the Airport:

 Hawaiian Airlines agents will verify service animal status by asking:

• If the animal is required as a disability accommodation.
  
• The tasks the animal has been trained to perform

Behavior and Control:

 Service animals must be:

• Leashed or harnessed at all times.
  
• Under control and non-disruptive (e.g., not barking, jumping, or relieving themselves inappropriately).
  

Carriers:

Use of a carrier is optional. If used, it must meet specific size and design standards (max: 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″). Carriers must fit under the seat and will be inspected prior to travel.

Animals in carriers:

• Cannot occupy exit rows or bulkhead seats.
  
• Cannot block aisles or impede other guests.
  
• May not be removed from the carrier in areas where it could pose a safety issue.
  

Seating and Space Considerations:

Service animals must:

• Remain on the floor within the passenger’s foot space.
  
• Not encroach on another passenger’s seat area.
  

Lap seating is permitted only for small animals that fit similarly to a lap child. Animals are not allowed on seats, to be harnessed to seats, or placed where they block pathways.

For larger animals, Hawaiian Airlines will try to accommodate you and your travel companions in adjacent seating, but is not obligated to provide extra seats or upgrades. If the animal cannot be safely accommodated in-cabin, they may need to travel as checked baggage or cargo (fees apply).

Refusal to Transport:

Hawaiian Airlines reserves the right to deny transport to any animal that:

• Is not properly documented,
  
• Acts disruptively or aggressively,
  
• Cannot be safely transported in the cabin.

Conclusion:

Hawaiian Airlines’ wheelchair assistance services are designed to provide an enjoyable and comfortable journey from start to finish. They understand the importance of accessible travel, and their team is committed to ensuring every aspect of your trip, from airport transfers to island excursions, is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. You can embrace the best travel experience with confidence, knowing that your Hawaiian adventure will be filled with ease, joy, and unforgettable moments, all tailored to your specific needs.

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