Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy: What Need to Know

When it comes to booking travel for young flyers, the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service is a key consideration for parents entrusting their children to fly alone. In this guide you’ll find everything you need to know about the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy, including eligibility, age restrictions, fees, required forms, booking procedures, travel-day guidance, the service provided, tips for parents, key terms and conditions, and why Hawaiian Airlines is a strong choice for minor travel. For direct support, you can call Hawaiian Airlines at +1-877-593-4887.

Quick Overview: Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

Hawaiian Airlines offers an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for children aged 5–11 who are traveling without an adult. The service is mandatory for this age group and optional for teens aged 12–17. For domestic flights within Hawaiʻi, the UM fee is $35 per flight segment, while flights between North America and Hawaiʻi are charged $100 per segment. The fee applies per direction and covers up to two siblings traveling together.

UM service is available only on Hawaiian Airlines–operated flights and must be arranged in advance, as it cannot be added during online check-in.

Key Details & Procedures

• Eligibility:
  Required for children 5–11 years old. Optional supervision is available for travelers 12–17 years old.
• Fees:

• • Within Hawaiian: $35 per segment

  • Between North America & Hawaiian: $100 per segment
    Fees cover supervision for up to two siblings on the same booking.

• Flight Restrictions:
  Unaccompanied Minor service is not permitted on interline or connecting flights involving other airlines.
• Booking Requirements:
  The UM service must be requested at the time of booking or in advance and is not available through online check-in.
• Airport Procedure:
  A designated adult must escort the child to the departure gate and remain until the flight departs. At arrival, the child is released only to the authorized adult, who must present valid identification.
• Required Information:
  Full name, address, and phone number of both the drop-off and pick-up adults are mandatory.

Important Information

• A completed Unaccompanied Minor form must remain with the child throughout the journey.
• Children aged 12–17 may travel without UM service, if parents choose.
• The child is released only to the individual listed on the UM form, with ID verification at arrival.

Understanding the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

The Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy is designed to ensure safe, supervised travel for children flying without an adult on Hawaiian Airlines flights. Under this policy, children deemed to be “unaccompanied minors” must follow specific procedures, paperwork, and pay a service fee. According to the airline’s Contract of Carriage (Rule 12) for domestic travel, children ages 12 and older may travel unaccompanied without being designated a formal unaccompanied minor, while those ages 5–11 travelling alone are labelled “Unaccompanied Minors” and must pay the applicable fee.

Hawaiian Airlines emphasises that the safety, well-being and comfort of young travellers are priorities. As such, parents/guardians must complete the required “Unaccompanied Minor Form” (HA O20) and follow the additional guidelines set by the airline.

Does Hawaiian Airlines allow minors to fly alone?

Hawaiian Airlines does not allow children under 13 years old to travel alone on international flights. Teenagers aged 13 to 17 years are generally permitted to fly without a parent or guardian; however, additional documents or consent forms may be required, depending on the route and destination. Requirements can vary for international travel, so parents are advised to confirm all rules and paperwork in advance to avoid issues during check-in.

Who Qualifies as an Unaccompanied Minor on Hawaiian Airlines?

Under Hawaiian Airlines’ definitions:

• Children aged 5–11 years traveling alone, or only with other minors, must use the Unaccompanied Minor service.
• Children aged 12 years and older may travel alone under standard conditions. Some flights, especially international ones, may need extra documentation.
• Children under 5 years old are not allowed to travel alone.
• On international routes, children under 12 years generally cannot travel without an accompanying adult as per airline policy.

When booking, always confirm if the service is required and check eligibility for your specific flight route.

Age Rules and Restrictions for Minor Flights on Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines sets age limits for unaccompanied minors, with supervision requirements varying by age and flight type.

Domestic vs International

For travel within the U.S. mainland and Hawaii, and inter-island travel, Hawaiian Airlines has distinct age rules:

• Children age 5–11 travelling alone are required to use the Unaccompanied Minor service.
• Children age 12 and up may travel alone, and in many cases are not required to be designated as unaccompanied minors (though optional service may exist).
• International routes are more restricted: for example, children under 12 cannot travel alone.

Other Restrictions

• Unaccompanied minors typically must travel on flights operated entirely by Hawaiian Airlines (not via codeshare or connecting with other carriers) on eligible routings.
• There are limitations for flights departing between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., red-eye segments, overnight layovers, or long connection times. For instance, the maximum ground time between connections for a child may be limited (e.g., two hours).
• Intra-Hawaii flights versus Mainland-Hawaii flights have different age and service rules.

Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Fee and Travel Costs

Hawaiian Airlines charges a fee for unaccompanied minors, covering supervision and in-flight support from check-in to arrival.

Domestic (Within Hawaii) vs International (Mainland or Beyond)

Under the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy, the fee structure is as follows:

• For travel within the State of Hawaii (inter-island flights): a fee of US $35 per segment applies for each Unaccompanied Minor (ages 5-11) for travel segments.
• For travel between the Continental USA and Hawaii (non-stop direct flights): a fee of US $100 per segment.
• For teens (ages 12–17) the service is optional in many cases (depending on routing), and fees may apply — though for many routings the regular “adult-fare” rules apply.

Other cost considerations:

• The UM service fee is in addition to the regular ticket fare for the minor.
• The fee applies per segment; if your itinerary has multiple segments, fees may be charged for each segment.

For assistance or questions about current fees or eligibility, you may call Hawaiian Airlines at +1-877-593-4887.

Required Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form

Before departure, parents must complete the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form, which authorizes the airline to care for the child during the trip. This form ensures clear communication between guardians and airline staff.

What is the Form?

The airline requires a specific form for children travelling alone under the UM service: the “Request for Unaccompanied Minor” form (HA O20) for Hawaiian Airlines. This form must be completed by the parent/guardian and submitted at check-in.

Information Needed in the Form

When filling out the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Form you will typically need to provide:

• Child’s full name, date of birth, flight details and routing.
• Parent or guardian’s full name, contact phone number, address.
• Name, phone number, and address of the responsible adult who will check the child in at the departure airport.
• Name, phone number, and address of the responsible adult who will meet the child at the destination airport.
• Alternate contact information in case the designated pickup person is unavailable.
• Signature of the parent/guardian confirming that the information is accurate and that they assume responsibility in case the child is not picked up at destination.

It is wise for parents to download and complete the form ahead of time and arrive at the airport early to ensure smooth check-in.

Booking an Unaccompanied Minor Ticket on Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines requires unaccompanied minor tickets to be booked in advance, ensuring proper supervision and service.

Online Booking Process for Minor Flights

While booking online for a child travelling alone with Hawaiian Airlines:

• Begin booking the flight on Hawaiian Airlines’ official website, entering the child’s details.
• When prompted, indicate that the child will travel as an unaccompanied minor (if ages 5-11 or as required).
• Some routings may restrict online booking of UM service; in such cases, contact the reservations line.
• Ensure you pay the UM service fee at the time of booking or at check-in, and complete the Unaccompanied Minor Form.
• After booking, call Hawaiian Airlines at +1-877-593-4887 to confirm the service and routing eligibility for your minor.

Book via Phone or Hawaiian Airlines Customer Service

If your itinerary involves special conditions, connecting flights, or international travel, booking by phone is often recommended:

• Contact Hawaiian Airlines Reservations at +1-877-593-4887.
• Provide the child’s age, itinerary, and mention “unaccompanied minor” so the agent can verify routing, flight eligibility, onboard service, and fee.
• The agent can verify whether the UM service is available for your routing, whether it involves connecting flights, overnight layovers, or codeshares (which may be prohibited).
• Confirm the seat assignment, gate pickup/drop-off procedures, and get a confirmation number for the UM service.

Booking Assistance through Travel Experts

If you use a travel agent or third-party booking platform, make sure to highlight that the child is travelling alone and needs the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor service. Many agents will handle the UM form, verify fee payment, and coordinate drop-off/pick-up details on your behalf.

Travel Day Guidelines for Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minors

Hawaiian Airlines provides clear travel day instructions to ensure unaccompanied minors have a safe and smooth journey.

Airport Check-In Procedures for Minors

On the day of travel:

• Arrive at the airport early (ideally at least 2 hours before departure). The parent or responsible adult must escort the child to the ticket counter.
• Present the completed Unaccompanied Minor form, child’s ticket, photo ID of the dropping-off adult, and any other required documentation.
• The adult must remain with the child at the gate until after the flight departs (in many cases) or until drop-off procedures are complete.
• The child’s seat may be pre-assigned by Hawaiian Airlines staff to ensure supervision.

Identification and Required Documents

Required documents:

• Child’s proof of age (birth certificate, passport or government-issued ID) if requested. Hawaiian reserves the right to request proof of age.
• Valid photo ID of the adult escorting the child at departure.
• Completed Unaccompanied Minor form.
• Contact details of pickup adult, and sometimes alternate pickup details.
• If travelling internationally, appropriate passport, visa and consent letters may be required.

Escort and Pick-Up Rules for Parents/Guardians

• The adult dropping off the child must accompany them to the gate or as per airport procedure, and remain there until departure.
• At the destination airport, the adult picking up the child must be listed on the form, show a valid photo ID, and may need to go through security or obtain a gate pass to meet the child.
• Hawaiian Airlines will release the child only to a person listed on the Unaccompanied Minor form.

Services and Assistance Provided to Unaccompanied Minors

Airlines offer dedicated services for unaccompanied minors, ensuring support from check-in to arrival.

Supervision and Safety Measures In-Flight

Hawaiian Airlines ensures that children travelling as unaccompanied minors receive extra attention and supervision:

• The child is escorted from check-in, through security, to the gate, boarding and on-board; flight attendants and ground staff monitor children requiring UM service.
• Seating arrangements may place the child near crewmembers or within easy reach of airline staff to facilitate monitoring.
• Airline staff monitor minors during layovers or connecting flights (if the routing allows) with specified maximum connection times.

Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Travel Support

The airline coordinates directly between the drop-off and pick-up guardians, ensuring the child meets the authorized adult safely. Staff members provide extra support if connection times are short or if a routing change causes any delay. Although Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t advertise a formal “UM kit,” travel experts note that the airline offers consistent supervision, reassurance, and added care for young travelers throughout their trip.

Tips for Parents Booking Unaccompanied Minor Flights

• Book early: UM service has limited availability per flight, so reserving in advance helps secure a spot.
• Choose non-stop flights when possible: Connecting flights increase risk and airlines often restrict them for unaccompanied minors, especially younger children.
• Check routings and eligibility: Make sure the itinerary is eligible for UM service (Hawaiian only, no overnight, no codeshare).
• Prepare the child: Explain the journey, let them know what to expect, make sure they are comfortable asking flight attendants for help.
• Pack wisely: Include snacks, entertainment, a charged device, comfortable clothing, and label items clearly. Ensure the child knows how to contact parents or staff if needed.
• Ensure drop-off and pick-up information is accurate: Mistakes can cause delays or refusals of service.
• Call Hawaiian Airlines at +1-877-593-4887 to confirm seat assignment, fee payment, and form completion.
• Arrive early at the airport, stay until the flight departs, and remain reachable by phone.
• Arrive at the pickup gate or designated location early, bring a valid photo ID, and receive the child safely.

Key Terms and Conditions of the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Policy

• Mandatory service for ages 5–11: Children in this age group travelling alone must be registered as unaccompanied minors and pay the relevant fee.
• Optional service for ages 12-17: Depending on the routing, teens may travel alone without the UM service or may opt in for added supervision.
• Prohibited routings: International flights, red-eye departures, overnight layovers, codeshare segments, or other restricted itineraries may disqualify UM travel.
• Fee per segment: Each flight segment may incur the fee; different fees apply based on whether travel is inter-island or U.S. Mainland–Hawaii.
• Form completion and identification: Parent/guardian must sign and assume responsibility; child’s age must be verified. Hawaiian may refuse service if no proof of age.
• Pick-up Restrictions: Only approved individuals with valid ID can pick up the child. They must arrive at the designated location on time.
• Responsibility: Hawaiian Airlines takes full responsibility for the child after check-in and supervision begins. The airline ensures the child’s safety until arrival and release to the approved adult, while the parent or guardian stays available for any updates or communication.

Always verify the latest terms directly with Hawaiian Airlines, as policies and fees may change.

Why Choose Hawaiian Airlines for Minor Travel?

Choosing Hawaiian Airlines for your child’s solo journey brings several advantages:

• Well-defined and transparent Unaccompanied Minor policy with publicly accessible information.
• Clear fee structure ($35 for inter-island; $100 for Mainland–Hawaii) and eligibility rules for ages and routings.
• A strong reputation for safety, particularly for flights within Hawaii and between the U.S. and Hawaii.
• Dedicated customer support through Hawaiian’s Reservations team (+1-877-593-4887) to assist parents booking minor travel.
• Good infrastructure in Hawaii and at major U.S. gateways to handle minor check-in and pick-up procedures.
• By choosing an airline with a solid focus on its home state (Hawaii), you benefit from experienced staff familiar with minor travel logistics.

These factors make Hawaiian Airlines a reliable choice when considering minor travel: your child will be under constant supervision, and you can rely on established procedures designed specifically for young travellers.

Conclusion

Navigating the Hawaiian Airlines Unaccompanied Minor process is simple with proper preparation. Understand who qualifies and complete the Unaccompanied Minor Form before travel. Pay the required fees and book correctly—online or by calling +1-877-593-4887—to ensure a safe trip for your child. Follow Hawaiian Airlines’ age rules (5–11 mandatory service, 12+ optional). Choose eligible flights and prepare all required documents. With these steps, your young traveler can enjoy a smooth, secure, and confident flying experience.