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Surfboards and similar items

Surfers, kiteboarders, paddleboarders and wakeboarders: We hear you. The ocean is calling, and we’re ready to help you reach the best breaks. You are welcome to check your boards with us. We will accept one or more boards packed in a board bag with adequate padding that meets our size and fee requirements. 

Board baggage fees starting from:

  • Neighbor Island flights:
    • $25 each way for up to 50 lb. (23 kg.)
    • $60 each way for 51-70 lb. (32 kg.)
    • $95 each way for 71-100 lb. (45 kg.)
  • North America flights:
    • $75 each way for up to 50 lb. (23 kg.)
    • $125 each way for 51-70 lb. (32 kg.)
    • $275 each way for 71-100 lb. (45 kg.)
  • Japan, Korea and American Samoa flights:
    • $75 each way for up to 50 lb. (23 kg.)
    • $125 each way for 51-70 lb. (32 kg.)
    • $475 each way for 71-100 lb. (45 kg.)
  • French Polynesia and Cook Islands flights:
    • $75 each way for up to 50 lb. (23 kg.)
    • $125 each way for 51-70 lb. (32 kg.)
  • Australia and New Zealand flights:
    • No fee will be charged if the item is used as your one complimentary* checked bag and weighs up to 70 lb. (32 kg.) with a maximum connection time of 24 hours. Any additional boards will be subject to the additional baggage fees.
      *Tickets issued prior to March 13, 2024 for flights between the United States and Australia/New Zealand are allowed two (2) bags/surfboards free of charge.

For non-U.S. currencies, see below.

Size and weight  

The fees above are for one board bag up to 115 inches (292 cm) in length. Extra-heavy boards, weighing more than 70 lb. (32 kg.), are not accepted on Australia, New Zealand, French Polynesia and Cook Islands flights. Board bags heavier than 100 pounds (45 kg) or longer than 115 inches (292 cm) are not accepted on any flight.

How many boards can I pack in one bag?  

There is no limit. However, your board bag must not exceed the size or weight limits above. You can check more than one board bag, but a separate fee will apply. 

What paperwork do I need? 

When you check in at the airport, a Hawaiian Airlines agent will do a quick visual inspection of your boards for any existing damage. You will then be asked to sign a limited release of liability. Boards can only be checked in via an agent or kiosk.

What is the best way to protect my boards during travel? 

Make sure your boards are adequately packed before you arrive at the airport. We do not provide packing materials. 

  • Use a padded surfboard bag designed for air travel. We recommend using a bag that is a few inches longer than your board. 
    • Surfboard socks do not provide adequate protection and will not be accepted.
  • Use soft items as extra padding, especially on the rails, nose, and tail.
    • Acceptable padding: towels and clothing
    • Unacceptable padding: sharp objects, snorkeling gear, toiletries 
  • Fins should be removed or well-padded. 

Boards without adequate protection are not accepted.  

Can I pack additional items in my board bag? 

No, your board bag can contain your boards and a reasonable amount of acceptable padding material only. 

Can I check in my board without a bag?

No, your boards must be packed in a bag that provides adequate protection.

Can I check in my board in a cardboard box designed for shipping?

Yes, as long as the board is fully contained in the box.

Non-US currencies 

For flights originating from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, or Korea, please refer to the following: International Contract of Carriage

Note 

In the unlikely event that we cannot accommodate your board bag on your flight due to lack of space, we will load it on the next available flight. When that flight arrives, you may claim your item at baggage claim. Please note that we do not provide ground transportation for board bags. 

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