Hawaiian Airlines Refund Policy 2026: HawaiianMiles, Cancellations & Cash Refunds
Updated: January 9, 2026 | By Kai Nakamura, Hawaii Travel Expert
Quick Summary
Hawaiian Airlines (now part of Alaska Airlines) has Main Cabin Flex fares that are refundable. If Hawaiian cancels, demand cash. Call 1-844-656-7300.
1. Hawaiian Fare Types
| Fare | Change Fee | Refundable? |
|---|---|---|
| Main Cabin Basic | $200 | Credit |
| Main Cabin | $0 | Credit |
| Main Cabin Flex/Premium | $0 | ? Yes |
2. HawaiianMiles Refunds
Award tickets can be cancelled with miles redeposited. Pualani Elite members get free redeposits. Taxes are refunded to original payment.
Your Legal Rights Under DOT Regulations
Under DOT regulations, you have federal rights that airlines cannot override:
? Your Guaranteed Rights:
- 24-hour full refund: Cancel any ticket within 24 hours if booked 7+ days before departure
- Cash refund when airline cancels: Never have to accept vouchers for airline-caused cancellations
- Refund timeline: 7 business days (credit card) or 20 days (other payment methods)
- Tarmac delay protections: Must deplane after 3 hours (domestic) or 4 hours (international)
- Denied boarding compensation: $775-
3. FAQs
,550 for involuntary bumping
If denied your rights, file a complaint at airconsumer.dot.gov.
Baggage Fee Refunds
Paid for checked bags but your flight was cancelled or delayed?
- Flight cancelled by airline: Full refund of ALL baggage fees
- Bag delayed 24+ hours: Eligible for essential items reimbursement
- Bag lost permanently: Up to $3,800 liability (domestic)
Important: File claims immediately and keep all receipts.
3. FAQs
Does Hawaiian charge change fees?
Main Cabin Basic: $200. Main Cabin and higher: Free.
Can I get cash refund?
Flex/Premium fares are refundable. Basic/Main get credits. Hawaiian cancels = cash.
Does Hawaiian fly between islands?
Yes! Frequent inter-island flights between Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Kona, Hilo, Lihue.
Which mainland cities does Hawaiian fly to?
Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Oakland, San Diego, Portland, and more.
What is Hawaiian Airlines's refund policy for cancelled flights?
When Hawaiian Airlines cancels your flight, you're entitled to a full refund to your original payment method - not just a voucher. If the airline offers only credit, you can insist on cash back. For schedule changes over 2 hours, refund rights typically apply. Call 1-844-656-7300 for help enforcing your refund.
Does Hawaiian Airlines charge change fees?
Change fee policies vary by fare class and route. Many Hawaiian Airlines fares now allow free changes (you pay only fare difference), while basic/light fares may still have restrictions. The 24-hour DOT cancellation rule applies to all US departures. Contact us at 1-844-656-7300 for your specific ticket.
How do I contact Hawaiian Airlines customer service?
Skip the long hold times. Our travel specialists at 1-844-656-7300 have direct access to Hawaiian Airlines reservation systems and can resolve issues faster than the general customer service line. We're available 24/7 for urgent travel situations.