U.S. Airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines, quickly rolled out free rebooking and waived change fees for travelers affected by the July 29–30, 2025 tsunami warning in Hawaii. This move came after a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia’s east coast triggered tsunami alerts across the Pacific, causing major travel disruptions and flight suspensions to, from, and within the Hawaiian Islands.
Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines suspended most flights as the tsunami warning took effect, but both resumed operations late Tuesday night once the threat eased and airports reopened. According to FlightAware, less than 10% of flights from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport were impacted. Cruise ships, such as Norwegian’s Pride of America and Oceania Regatta, also left Hawaiian ports early due to U.S. Coast Guard evacuation orders, leaving some passengers temporarily stranded.
Current Airline Policies for Affected Travelers:
- Hawaiian Airlines: No change fees or fare differences for rebooking flights to or from Oahu, Kona, Kauai, or Maui for travel on July 29–30, 2025. Rebooking must be in the same cabin, and new travel must start by August 3, 2025. Travelers can also cancel and keep the ticket value for up to one year, though fare differences may apply when rebooking.
- Alaska Airlines: Waiver in place for passengers to adjust travel plans without change fees. Flights have resumed, and travelers should check flight status online or contact customer service for rebooking.
What Travelers Should Do:
- Check flight status on the airline’s website or app before heading to the airport.
- Rebook flights as soon as possible. For Hawaiian Airlines, rebook in the same cabin by July 29, 2025, for travel starting by August 3, 2025. Alaska Airlines passengers can use the waiver to change plans without penalty.
- Cancel if needed. Hawaiian Airlines lets you cancel and keep the ticket value for up to one year from the original purchase date.
- For third-party bookings, contact your travel agent or online agency directly.
- Cruise passengers stranded ashore should contact their cruise line for updates and help with repatriation.
Official Statements and Community Impact:
Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines both confirmed the waivers and resumption of flights, stressing guest safety and patience. Hawaii Governor Josh Green confirmed all flights were on hold Tuesday night, but operations resumed as the tsunami threat faded. The U.S. Coast Guard ordered all commercial vessels to leave Hawaiian ports, and cruise lines are working with local authorities to help stranded passengers.
Policy Implications and Advice:
Travelers can rebook or cancel without penalty, reducing financial loss and stress. Some may face delays or need rescreening at airports, especially those who sheltered overnight. Travel insurance may not cover voluntary cancellations unless government advice changes, so check your policy for natural disaster coverage.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, U.S. Airlines’ rapid response and flexible policies stand out compared to past disasters. For the latest updates on airport status and travel advisories, visit the Hawaii Department of Transportation.
Keep all documents and receipts for insurance claims, and stay updated through official airline and government channels as the situation develops.
Learn Today
Tsunami Warning → An alert indicating a potential large sea wave caused by an underwater earthquake threatening coastal safety.
Change Fees → Charges airlines usually apply when passengers alter flight dates or details after booking.
Rebooking → The process of changing a booked flight to a new date, time, or route.
U.S. Coast Guard → Federal agency responsible for maritime safety, including enforcing evacuation orders during emergencies.
Flight Suspension → Temporary halt of airline operations on specific routes due to safety or external factors.
This Article in a Nutshell
U.S. Airlines, including Hawaiian and Alaska, quickly waived rebooking fees after an 8.8 earthquake triggered a tsunami warning in Hawaii, suspending flights. Travelers can rebook or cancel flights with flexibility, alleviating stress amid disruptions. Cruise ships also evacuated, reflecting broad safety measures impacting July 29–30 travel plans in Hawaii.
— By VisaVerge.com
