Hawaiian: Surfboards, Bicycles Now Standard Checked

DALLAS – Hawaiian Airlines (HA) has begun accepting surfboards, bicycles, and other sports equipment, including golf clubs, as standard checked baggage on every flight, meaning no extra fees to check those items.

Passengers who book tickets with the airline's World Elite Mastercard or Alaska Airlines (AS) can get two free checked bags, including sports equipment, but only on eligible flights, which HA didn't go into detail.

The announcement coincides with today’s launch of HA's Huakaʻi by Hawaiian, a free program offering perks and discounts for Hawaiʻi residents; the move makes sense, given the evergreen tourist destination.

“Hawaiʻi is synonymous with surfing and many ocean and land-based activities that draw visitors from around the world,” said Sandra Wang, product manager at Hawaiian Airlines.

“We are excited to extend this new benefit to our visitors and kamaʻāina so they can enjoy their favorite sports and hobbies while exploring Hawaiʻi and anywhere they travel in our network, including Asia, Oceania, and the U.S. continent.”

As per the HA release, "Huakaʻi members receive a free checked bag on Neighbor Island flights, 10% or 20% off one Neighbor Island booking per quarter, and network-wide deals monthly." Residents can sign up at HawaiianAirlines.com/huakai.

Checking Sport Equipment on Other Airlines

While this is new for HA. most airlines allow you to check surfboards, bicycles, and various sports equipment, even as standard checked luggage, but some might charge an extra fee and/or have specific guidelines:

‍Surfboards

• Can typically be checked as one piece of baggage
• Must be properly packed and protected
• Some airlines require removing fins or keels to prevent damage
• Surfboards under 200 cm usually don't need advance registration
• May incur additional fees depending on size and weight

Bicycles

• Can be checked on most airlines
• Must be packed in a suitable protective bike bag or box
• Typically counted as standard checked baggage

General Sports Equipment Guidelines

• Most sports equipment counts toward your checked bag allowance
• Standard baggage limits apply:
  • Maximum weight: 50 pounds (23 kg)
  • Maximum combined dimensions: 62 inches
• Some equipment may require special handling or advance registration

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