When planning a family vacation to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, understanding the Hawaiian Airlines child policy is essential for a smooth and stress-free experience. Whether you’re traveling with an infant, a toddler, or an older child, Hawaiian Airlines offers comprehensive support and clear regulations to ensure the journey is comfortable and secure for both children and their guardians.

Hawaiian Airlines Infant and Child Fare Policy

Hawaiian Airlines classifies passengers under two years of age as infants, and those aged 2–11 years as children. The Hawaiian Airlines child policy includes both fare discounts and specific seating guidelines.

• Infants (under 2 years old) may travel on the lap of an adult without occupying a seat for a nominal fee on domestic flights and an international infant fare on overseas routes.

• If a seat is desired for the infant, especially when using an FAA-approved child safety seat, a child fare ticket must be purchased.

• Children (ages 2–11) require their own seat and must be ticketed accordingly.

It’s highly recommended to reserve seats in advance, especially when traveling as a family, to ensure seating together. Hawaiian Airlines does its best to accommodate families seated in the same row, but it’s not guaranteed unless seats are pre-selected.

Unaccompanied Minor Program on Hawaiian Airlines

One of the most essential components of the Hawaiian Airlines child policy is its Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service, which is mandatory for children ages 5 through 11 traveling without a guardian aged 15 or older.

Key Points of the Unaccompanied Minor Program:

• Ages 5–11: Required to use the UM service.

• Ages 12–17: Optional UM service available upon request.

• The service is available only on non-stop or direct flights operated by Hawaiian Airlines. Connecting flights and codeshare flights are not eligible.

• A fee of $35 USD per flight segment applies for interisland flights and $100 USD per segment for transpacific flights.

Check-In and ID Requirements for UMs:

• The child must be accompanied to the departure gate by an adult aged 18 or older who remains until the flight departs.

• The receiving adult must be present at the destination gate with proper identification and must be named in advance on the UM documentation form.

Hawaiian Airlines Child Seating and Safety Equipment

For children traveling in their own seats, Hawaiian Airlines allows the use of FAA-approved car seats and child harness devices such as CARES.

Approved Child Restraint Systems Include:

• Car seats with a label stating “This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”

• CARES Harness for children between 22 and 44 pounds.

Booster seats are not allowed during takeoff, landing, or taxi but can be used during the cruise portion of the flight if the child is in their own seat.

Baggage Allowance for Infants and Children

The Hawaiian Airlines child policy provides a generous baggage allowance for traveling with children.

• Lap infants are not entitled to a standard baggage allowance but may have a diaper bag, stroller, and car seat checked for free.

• Children with purchased seats are allowed the same baggage allowance as adults, which includes one carry-on and one personal item.

Baby Gear Allowance:

• Strollers and car seats can be checked at the ticket counter or gate free of charge.

• Oversized items such as portable cribs or playpens are subject to standard checked baggage fees and size limitations.

In-Flight Services for Families with Children

Hawaiian Airlines takes pride in offering a comfortable onboard experience for families.

Family-Friendly In-Flight Amenities:

• Pre-boarding is offered for families with young children to allow extra time to get settled.

• In-flight entertainment includes movies and TV shows suitable for all ages on most aircraft.

• Complimentary snacks and beverages are provided, and on long-haul flights, kid-friendly meals are available by request during booking (especially on international routes).

While there are no bassinets or changing tables on board, flight attendants are trained to assist families as much as possible throughout the journey.

Tips for Flying Hawaiian Airlines with Children

Traveling with children requires planning. Here are several practical tips aligned with the Hawaiian Airlines child policy:

1. Book Early and Reserve Seats: Guarantee you sit together by choosing your seats during booking.

2. Arrive Early at the Airport: Allow time for check-in, security, and potential document verification for unaccompanied minors.

3. Bring Entertainment and Snacks: While Hawaiian Airlines provides onboard amenities, having personalized items keeps kids occupied.

4. Use Pre-boarding Wisely: Take advantage of early boarding to organize your seating area and settle your child comfortably.

Documentation Required for Minors

According to the Hawaiian Airlines child policy, documentation requirements vary based on the route and child’s age.

Domestic Flights:

• Infants under 2 traveling as lap children require a birth certificate or passport to verify age.

• Children flying as unaccompanied minors must have UM paperwork completed, and their guardian must present valid photo identification.

International Flights:

• All minors, regardless of age, require a valid passport.

• In some countries, including destinations like Japan, South Korea, and Australia, parental consent forms may be necessary if the child is traveling with one parent or alone.

Special Needs and Medical Conditions

Children with medical conditions or disabilities are supported through Hawaiian Airlines’ Accessible Travel Services. Parents are advised to:

• Contact Hawaiian Airlines’ Special Assistance Desk at least 48 hours before departure.

• Request wheelchair services, special seating arrangements, or medications handling as needed.

Travelers must carry all necessary medications in their carry-on and ensure items are clearly labeled and packed according to TSA regulations.

Conclusion

Flying with Hawaiian Airlines offers families a thoughtful and safe travel experience. Their child policy is carefully crafted to support parents, guardians, and young travelers with clear regulations, accessible services, and a focus on comfort. Whether it’s through their unaccompanied minor program, infant seating options, or complimentary baggage for strollers and car seats, the airline ensures each journey is managed with care and efficiency.

For any family preparing for their next island getaway or international adventure, being informed about the Hawaiian Airlines child policy helps minimize surprises and enhances the overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Hawaiian Airlines’ policy for infants?
A1: Infants under 2 years old may travel on an adult’s lap for a fee on domestic flights or at a reduced fare internationally. A separate seat can be purchased if desired.

Q2: Do children need their own ticket on Hawaiian Airlines?
A2: Yes, children aged 2 and older must have their own ticketed seat and pay the applicable child fare.

Q3: What is the unaccompanied minor age for Hawaiian Airlines?
A3: Children ages 5 to 11 must use the Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service. It’s optional for passengers aged 12–17.

Q4: How much does the unaccompanied minor service cost?
A4: The UM service fee is $35 per segment for interisland flights and $100 per segment for transpacific routes.

Q5: Can I bring a stroller and car seat for free?
A5: Yes, Hawaiian Airlines allows one stroller and one car seat per child to be checked for free, either at the counter or gate.

Q6: Are child restraint systems allowed onboard?
A6: FAA-approved car seats and the CARES harness are allowed. Booster seats can be used only during cruise, not during taxi, takeoff, or landing.

Q7: What documents are required for a child to fly?
A7: A birth certificate or passport may be required to verify age. International flights require a valid passport and possibly parental consent forms.

Q8: Is there in-flight entertainment for kids?
A8: Yes, most Hawaiian Airlines flights offer family-friendly movies and shows. Complimentary snacks and drinks are also provided.

Thanks for visiting: Articlesritz