Hawaiian Airlines brings that island hospitality to every journey, from inter-island hops to mainland flights. When trips need canceling—whether for personal reasons or airline disruptions—the refund process becomes key. The Hawaiian Airlines Refunds Policy balances flexibility with fare rules. Since the no-change-fee policy started years ago, refunds tie closely to ticket type. Main Cabin and premium fares offer more options, while Basic remains limited.  the structure holds steady, with a strong 24-hour grace period and clear steps for voluntary or involuntary cases.

The 24-Hour Risk-Free Cancellation Window

Bookings made directly through HawaiianAirlines.com or the app qualify for a full refund within 24 hours of purchase. This applies as long as the flight departs at least seven days later. No fees apply, and the entire amount returns to the original payment method.

This DOT-protected period serves as a buffer for correcting dates or rethinking plans. After 24 hours, standard fare conditions take over, but the window remains a reliable starting point for most passengers.

Voluntary Refunds: When Passengers Cancel

Voluntary cancellations depend on the fare purchased. Main Cabin tickets (including what was once standard Economy) allow cancellations with no change fee, though refunds are typically limited to taxes and surcharges for non-refundable portions. The base fare often converts to a future travel credit rather than cash.

Refundable fares—available in premium categories—offer full refunds at any time, minus any used portions. These tickets remain fully refundable, with no penalties for cancellation.

Basic Cabin fares are generally non-refundable. Cancellation results in forfeiture of the fare, with only taxes and fees refunded in some cases.

The Hawaiian Airlines Refunds Policy emphasizes checking fare rules at booking—details appear during purchase and in confirmation emails.

Involuntary Refunds: When Hawaiian Airlines Causes the Issue

Schedule changes, cancellations, or significant delays trigger full refund eligibility if passengers decline rebooking. Hawaiian Airlines provides options to reaccommodate on the next available flight or issue refunds to the original payment.

For disruptions like lengthy delays, compensation may apply under applicable rules, including DOT protections for controllable issues. Involuntary refunds process without fees, and the airline notifies affected passengers via email or the app.

No-show policies, updated in 2025, apply to non-refundable tickets—if a flight is missed without prior cancellation, the reservation (including connections) cancels, and value is forfeited. Refundable tickets follow specific fare terms.

How to Request a Refund: Step-by-Step Process

Refunds start in the Manage Trips section on HawaiianAirlines.com. Log in with the confirmation code and last name, select the booking, and look for cancellation or refund options.

For eligible tickets, the system guides through the process, showing any applicable credits or refunds. Confirmation emails arrive with updated details.

When online handling is not available (complex bookings, awards, or certain add-ons), contact Reservations at 1-800-367-5320. Agents verify eligibility and process requests.

Written requests work for special cases—medical waivers use a dedicated form, submitted via email or mail, with up to 30 days for processing. Waivers cover certain fees but not fare differences.

Refunds typically return to the original payment method. Processing times vary—credit cards often take 7-20 business days, though some appear sooner.

No-Show Policy and Its Impact on Refunds

Since May 2025, a no-show policy applies to non-refundable tickets. Missing a flight without cancellation cancels the entire itinerary, forfeiting fares and miles without credit.

Refundable tickets remain governed by their specific terms. This change aligns Hawaiian with industry standards while protecting refundable bookings.

Special Cases: Medical, Bereavement, and More

Medical emergencies qualify for potential fee waivers with documentation (hospitalization of passenger, companion, or immediate family). Submit the waiver form online or by mail—approval is case-by-case, with processing up to 30 days. Waivers do not cover fare differences.

Bereavement or other documented situations may receive similar consideration through Reservations.

HawaiianMiles awards follow no-fee change rules for most, but refunds depend on fare type. Third-party bookings route through the original seller.

Refund Timelines and Tracking

Processing varies by method—most refunds appear within a few weeks. Track status through the booking or contact support.

For disputes or delays, the Consumer Affairs office handles written requests. The airline's Customer Service Plan outlines commitments to timely resolutions.

Why the Hawaiian Airlines Refunds Policy Works for Travelers

This policy offers reasonable access to refunds on flexible fares, with no fees complicating most voluntary changes. Basic fares trade lower prices for limited recovery, a common industry approach.

The clear online tools and phone support make the process approachable. with stable rules, passengers can plan confidently.

Always confirm details on HawaiianAirlines.com for specific tickets—fare conditions and route variations can influence outcomes. Safe travels, and may the islands always welcome a return visit.