As Hawaii faces hurricane threat, airlines ease ticket change fees

In the run-up to the arrival of Hurricane Iselle and Tropical Storm Julio, airlines are allowing passengers heading to and from Hawaii to change their tickets without penalty. The hurricane is expected to hit the islands Thursday or Friday, with the tropical storm possibly following on Sunday, according to forecasters.

Some domestic carriers Tuesday announced fee waivers for Hawaii-bound travelers on Thursday and Friday with news of the two-storm punch. Online weather forecasts say Hurricane Iselle should weaken before it bears down on the islands but has the potential to cause flash floods, mudslides and big wind gusts.

On the other hand, Julio may pick up strength and turn into a hurricane by the time it reaches the Hawaiian islands. Here’s a rundown on how airlines are handling weather-related ticket changes.

Hawaiian Airlines will waive change fees and price differences for passengers who want to switch their tickets and fly after Friday, the airline announced Tuesday. Travel must be completed on or before next Tuesday.

United Airlines allows passengers to change dates once for any day up to a year from when the ticket was issued. It will not, however, waive fare price differences that may result from the change.

American Airlines will waive fees on changes made on tickets for those who want to fly today (Wednesday) through next Tuesday; travel must be completed by Tuesday. Delta Air Lines is waiving change fees for travelers who want to rebook no later than next Monday.

If you are scheduled to fly to Hawaii on any other airline, check with your carrier on their change policy. For further updates on the airlines above, check their websites, Facebook and Twitter feeds.