Published on
November 4, 2025
As seasonal storms gain strength in the North Pacific during the fall and winter months, powerful ocean swells begin to form, shaping some of the most renowned surfing conditions across Hawai‘i and California. These iconic coastlines have long been celebrated worldwide as premier surfing destinations, and both regions play a crucial role in the combined network of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. With surfers frequently traveling between these coastal hubs in search of the next perfect wave, a major policy update has introduced a new level of convenience to enhance their journeys.
A new surfboard check-in policy has been launched across Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines operations, aimed at making travel easier, more flexible, and more affordable for the global surfing community. Recognized as the most generous surfboard baggage policy among premium U.S. airlines, this advancement reflects a strong commitment to travellers who rely on seamless transportation for their essential surf equipment.
Enhancing Surf Travel Across a Global Air Network
For many surfers, planning trips to legendary beaches in Hawai‘i, the scenic shorelines of California, or world-famous break points in the southern hemisphere is part of a continuous pursuit of new wave experiences. By aligning policies to eliminate complex restrictions, the airlines are strengthening connectivity between top U.S. surfing meccas and major international surfing destinations.
The new policy permits multiple surfboards to be checked within a single bag as long as the total length does not exceed 10 feet, 5 inches and 50 pounds when flying on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines aircraft. This allows travellers heading to Tahiti, Mexico, and similar destinations to carry the surfboards required for challenging big-wave missions.
For passengers traveling on E175 regional aircraft, the length limit is adjusted to nine feet, 7 inches due to operational requirements, yet the ease and clarity of process remain consistent across the network.
Supporting Surfers of All Styles and Experience Levels
The updated policy has been crafted to support a broad spectrum of surfers. Those pursuing massive seasonal swells can confidently travel with their larger boards. Families seeking warm-water retreats such as Costa Rica will enjoy the freedom to bring longboards suited for gentle rollers. Travellers venturing deeper into the airline network now have easier access to top coastlines in Australia, American Samoa, the Cook Islands, Japan, and New Zealand.
These efforts acknowledge that surfboards hold significant recreational, cultural, and lifestyle value. By prioritizing passenger needs and respecting the role surf gear plays in travel memories, the airlines reinforce an unwavering dedication to the global surfing culture.
Eliminating Special Fees and Adding More Value
A major benefit of the revised rules is the removal of special item fees for surfboards. They are now handled as standard checked baggage, reducing travel costs for passengers who journey with boards regularly.
Travellers booking with airline-branded credit cards and those earning points through the Atmos Rewards loyalty program gain additional luggage allowance benefits, amplifying value while promoting greater travel freedom.
In Hawai‘i, where surfing carries deep ancestral importance, an additional service advantage is provided. Through the Huaka‘i by Hawaiian program, local residents traveling interisland receive one free checked bag, including surfboards. This supports the vibrant surfing heritage central to island communities.
A Commitment to Surf Culture and Travel Freedom
The alignment between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines highlights an elevated understanding of lifestyle-based travel. The ability to adventure along coastlines, adapt to new breaks, and chase seasonal wave patterns remains core to why surfers travel frequently. By ensuring their boards can travel effortlessly, the passenger experience is optimized, especially during peak surf seasons.
Surfers preparing for upcoming trips now enjoy greater confidence knowing that essential equipment can follow them safely, quickly, and without limitations.
A Stronger Foundation for Surf-Focused Air Travel
This upgraded policy demonstrates a forward-looking approach to aviation services that cater to lifestyle travellers. With expanded accessibility to world-renowned wave-riding destinations, tourism-driven economies tied to surf culture are expected to benefit significantly. Growth will continue across coastal businesses including surf schools, rental companies, lodging providers, and marine services.
By prioritizing passenger needs central to travel demand in coastal regions, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are affirming leadership as the top choice for surf travellers throughout the United States and the Pacific. Improved handling of surf equipment supports travellers while strengthening aviation infrastructure built around passions, culture, and adventure.
As worldwide ocean swells gain momentum and travellers look ahead to their next ride, these service enhancements ensure that limitations never stand between surfers and their love for the waves. The harmony between travel, sport, and cultural identity is strengthened through airline policies that elevate the experience from departure to the shoreline.
[Image Credit: Alaska Airlines]
