Understanding the Hawaiian Airlines Cancellation Policy: A Complete Guide for Travelers

When travel plans change, knowing your options can save time, money, and stress. Whether you're canceling due to a sudden change in schedule, personal emergency, or weather-related disruptions, the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy outlines the rules and choices available to passengers. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know—eligibility, fees, refund rules, and how to cancel—so you can navigate cancellations with confidence.

What Is the Hawaiian Airlines Cancellation Policy?

The Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy outlines the terms under which you can cancel a flight, request a refund, or receive credit for future travel. This policy varies depending on the type of fare purchased, how the ticket was booked, and the timing of the cancellation. Hawaiian Airlines allows different levels of flexibility depending on whether you bought a Main Cabin Basic, Main Cabin, or First Class ticket.

Here’s an overview of what to expect:

• Basic fares may not be refundable or changeable.

• Main Cabin and higher fares often include options for changes or cancellations with varying conditions.

• Refund eligibility often depends on whether you cancel within 24 hours of booking.
  

24-Hour Cancellation Policy

One of the most traveler-friendly aspects of the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy is the 24-hour risk-free cancellation rule. According to U.S. Department of Transportation guidelines, passengers can cancel a flight within 24 hours of purchase—if the booking was made at least seven days before departure—and receive a full refund.

This applies to all fare types, including non-refundable tickets. If you change your mind shortly after booking, this is your best window to cancel without any penalty.

Key Points:

• Must cancel within 24 hours of booking.

• Booking must be made at least 7 days before departure.

• Applies to all fare types.
  

Canceling a Non-Refundable Ticket

Non-refundable tickets are common, especially when you’re booking discounted fares. Under the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy, canceling a non-refundable ticket doesn’t mean you lose the entire value. Instead, you may be eligible for a travel credit that you can use toward a future Hawaiian Airlines flight.

However, cancellation fees may apply, and credits often come with an expiration date—typically one year from the original date of purchase. Be sure to read the fare rules associated with your ticket or contact customer service for specifics.

Canceling a Refundable Ticket

If you purchased a refundable fare, you’re in a better position. The Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy allows you to cancel these tickets and receive a full refund back to your original form of payment. Refunds are typically processed within 7–10 business days for credit card transactions, but it may take longer for other payment types.

Refundable tickets usually cost more upfront, but they offer peace of mind if you anticipate the need to change or cancel your trip.

How to Know If Your Ticket is Refundable:

• Check your fare type on your confirmation email or account.

• Review fare rules before booking.

• Call customer support for clarification.
  

Flight Disruptions and Involuntary Cancellations

If Hawaiian Airlines cancels your flight due to weather, mechanical issues, or schedule changes, you're generally entitled to a few options under the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy:

• Rebooked travel at no additional cost.

• A full refund if you choose not to travel.

• Travel credit for a future flight.

Involuntary cancellations fall under separate rules and are usually handled with more flexibility since the change is not due to the traveler. Hawaiian Airlines generally offers rebooking assistance, compensation, or refund options depending on the circumstances.

How to Cancel a Hawaiian Airlines Flight

Canceling a flight with Hawaiian Airlines is simple and can be done in a few ways:

1. Online via the Website or Mobile App

• Visit the official Hawaiian Airlines website.

• Log in to your account or enter your confirmation code.

• Go to “My Trips” and select the flight you wish to cancel.

• Follow the prompts to complete cancellation and view refund or credit details.
  

2. By Phone

You can call Hawaiian Airlines customer service to cancel a flight. This option is recommended if you need help understanding your fare rules or if your ticket was booked through a third party.

3. Airport Ticket Counter

If you're already at the airport or prefer in-person assistance, you can visit the Hawaiian Airlines counter to make changes or cancellations.

Hawaiian Airlines Travel Credit Policy

When canceling a non-refundable fare, you’ll often receive a travel credit rather than a refund. Here’s how the travel credit process works under the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy:

• Travel credits are issued via email or added to your HawaiianMiles account.

• You can apply credits toward future flight bookings.

• Credits typically expire one year from the date of issue.

• Some restrictions may apply on how credits can be used (e.g., they may not cover certain taxes or fees).
  

Make sure to keep track of your credit expiration date and any applicable terms to avoid losing the value of your canceled ticket.

Canceling Award Tickets

If you booked your flight using HawaiianMiles, the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy has different terms for award tickets. Canceling an award ticket typically results in the miles being redeposited into your account. However, a redeposit fee may apply unless you have elite status or cancel within a specified grace period.

Things to Know:

• Redeposit fees vary based on your status with HawaiianMiles.

• Miles may take a few days to return to your account.

• Taxes and fees paid with cash are usually refunded.
  

COVID-19 and Flexible Travel Waivers

During and after the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian Airlines introduced temporary waivers to offer travelers more flexibility. While many of those specific waivers have expired, it's still worth checking for any ongoing flexible policies that might apply in the event of health-related travel restrictions or emergencies.

The airline may update the Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy from time to time, especially in response to global or regional events, so it’s always wise to read current terms before canceling.

Final Thoughts: Make Informed Changes to Your Travel Plans

The Hawaiian Airlines cancellation policy provides a mix of flexibility and structure depending on the type of ticket you buy. Understanding the cancellation terms before booking a flight can help you make smarter decisions, especially when life is unpredictable.

Whether you're seeking a refund, looking to rebook, or just want to explore your options, Hawaiian Airlines offers tools and services to simplify the process. Be sure to check the specific rules attached to your fare, take advantage of the 24-hour cancellation window when possible, and keep records of your transaction for future reference.