A comprehensive Hawaii airport guide – how to get around fast and easy at each airport
Airports in Hawaii feel and look like Hawaii the moment you arrive – a little sweet, a little dated and musty, some free wifi to a few airports but still that tropical and exciting vibe that you have arrived to paradise. All the airports in Hawaii need some updating but they still exude a sense of place that gives you a warm embrace that you’ve finally arrived paradise to all of the airports of Hawaii.
Recent updates to Maui, Kona and Honolulu airport is finally making more modernized and functional upgrades to each airport.
There’s even a website dedicated to Honolulu modernization here for information open to the public.
Here’s a quick Hawaii airport guide to help you in the process for your arrival or departure back to where you came from. Hopefully this can help you to navigate quickly through the airport from your plane to where you want to go to in paradise.
Hawaii’s Top 6 Commercial Airports and airport codes
You’ll find the main airports in Hawaii below and the Hawaii airport code that are associated to that destination. When you use a general search engine for flights, you can easily put in the airport code or the destination in your search parameters below.
- Honolulu International Airport – Honolulu (airport code: HNL)
- Kahului Airport – Kahului (airport code: OGG)
- Kona International Airport at Keahole – Kailua/Kona (airport code: KOA)
- Lihue Airport – Lihue (airport code: LIH)
- Hilo International Airport – Hilo (airport code: ITO)
- Molokai Airport – Hoolehua (airport code: MKK)
You’ll find these Hawaii airport code is what you will want to remember when booking your flights to the various islands.
Big Island Airports
The Big Island has two main airports that accommodate major air traffic on opposite ends of the island. Most flights are inter-island flights from the main hub at Honolulu, but there are also a few directly flights from the mainland and some international destinations.
Hilo International Airport (ITO)
You’ll notice when you arrive the Hilo International Airport with the open walkways filled with tropical plants and palm trees. The entry arrivals and departures are filled in between open areas with tropical plants and flowers, even the tropical print sofas and wooden furniture give you a sense of comfort and Hawaiian hospitality, making this airport feel so comfortable along with the friendly service you’ll get from the check in agents, TSA entry and even when you board your flights.
Hilo airport services all of East Hawaii, the Hamakua coast, Puna district and down to Volcanoes National Park so if you are planning on basing yourself in any of these locations then Hilo is the place to be. Less than two miles to Hilo’s downtown historic district, you’ll pass through iconic sites like Liliu’okalani gardens, Coconut Island, Rainbow Falls and Hilo’s scenic waterfront area.
In the front portion of the airport are lei stands, check in desks and across the street are the rental car offices you can easily get to and get your car quickly. What’s sweet about Hilo are the volunteer musicians and Hula dancers that frequent the main waiting lounge area and offer some beautiful hula dances and talk story to what life is like every day in Hilo and East Hawaii. There are Uber and taxis to take you where you need to go, Uber rides only pick up at the outskirts of airport and only drops off directly at the airport.
If you’re flying out of Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the Big Island, here’s a practical overview to help you navigate the airport efficiently.
Address: 2450 Kekuanaoa St., Hilo, HI 96720
For more information check www.hawaii.gov/ito
Check out my guide to visiting Hilo International Airport here for more details
Security Procedures & TSA Checkpoint Hours
The TSA checkpoint at Hilo International Airport opens daily at 4:35 a.m. and remains operational until the last flight departs. Security wait times are generally short, often under a minute, but it’s still advisable to arrive early to accommodate any unforeseen delays. TSA PreCheck is available at the main checkpoint.
All departing passengers are required to undergo an agricultural inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species. Be prepared to open your bags for inspection, and avoid sealing coolers or boxes until after this process.
Recommended Check-In Times
Passengers should arrive at least 2 hours prior to their scheduled departure. Baggage must be checked in at least 30 minutes before the flight departure. citeturn0search0
For Hawaiian Airlines flights, check-in is located at the East End lobby. It’s recommended to arrive 1 hour and 30 minutes prior to departure.
Baggage Policies & Agricultural Inspection
Checked baggage is accepted during ticket counter hours. If you’re connecting to a mainland flight, most airlines will check your luggage through to your final destination. However, it’s best to confirm this with your airline at check-in.
Carry-on items are screened at the security checkpoint. Ensure that your baggage complies with TSA regulations to facilitate a smooth screening process.
Airline-Specific Information
Hilo International Airport serves several major airlines, including:
- Hawaiian Airlines: Operates from Terminal 2.
- Southwest Airlines: Operates from the main terminal.
All ticketing, check-in, and baggage claim services are centralized within the main terminal. For specific policies regarding baggage allowances, pre-boarding options, and other services, consult directly with your airline.
Here’s a cool landing video into Hilo International Airport what arrival looks like on the island.
Kona International Airport (KOA)
Located less than 7 miles from downtown Kona, the Kona International Airport feels like an old school type of airport where you actually have to walk through the airport tarmac and climb stairs up to the plane entrances. This really feels like old Hawaii with palm trees swaying and fresh aromatic plants perfuming the air around the airport and open pavilion areas for passengers to wait or board during check in. And to think Kona beaches are close especially popular places like Kua Bay, Makalawena, Hapuna and A-Bay.
It’s a charming way of arriving or departing that the other airports do not have at their facilities and create a low key but welcoming presence to the airport experience. Car rentals have to take individual shuttles to their central location just a few miles from the airport area and long/short term parking are just across the street from the airport area. There are shuttles available to local hotels, Uber and taxis to take you where you need to go.
Address: 73-200 Kupipi St., Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
For more information check www.hawaii.gov/koa
Or check out my port to visiting Kona International Airport here for more details.
If you’re flying out of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island, here’s a practical overview to help you navigate the airport efficiently.
Security Procedures & TSA Checkpoint Hours
KOA operates two TSA checkpoints, both serving all passengers. The TSA checkpoint hours are from 5:15 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily. TSA PreCheck is available, but availability may vary based on operational needs
All departing passengers are required to undergo an agricultural inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species. Be prepared to open your bags for inspection and avoid sealing coolers or boxes until after this process.
Recommended Check-In Times
It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure, especially during peak travel periods. This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and any unforeseen delays.
For American Airlines flights, the ticket counter opens 3 hours before departure, with a 45-minute check-in cut-off time. Hawaiian Airlines typically opens its ticket counter 2 hours prior to departure
Baggage Policies & Agricultural Inspection
Most airlines at KOA will check your luggage through to your final destination, even if you’re connecting through another Hawaiian airport. However, it’s best to confirm this with your airline at check-in
Carry-on items are screened at the security checkpoint. Ensure that your baggage complies with TSA regulations to facilitate a smooth screening process.
Airline-Specific Information
KOA serves several major airlines, including:
- Hawaiian Airlines: Check-in is located in the main terminal.
- American Airlines: Ticket counter opens 3 hours before departure
- Delta Air Lines: Check-in is located in the departures hall of the main terminal.
All ticketing, check-in, and baggage claim services are centralized within the main terminal. For specific policies regarding baggage allowances, pre-boarding options, and other services, consult directly with your airline.
Airport Pickup
Arrange your shuttle pick up from Kona Airport here for booking a reservation
Here’s a quick tour of Kona International Airport in video and the outdoor pavilions
Kahalui Airport, Maui (OGG)
The Kahalui Airport is located right on the outskirts of town and less than 2.5 miles to the central business hub of Kahalui along with all the shopping conveniences, port, and government services in the area. A combination of open-air walkways and closed pavilions, you’ll immediately see and smell the wonderful ginger and plumeria blossoms that greet you right when you arrive your gate.
The 2nd largest airport in Hawaii by the volume of arrival and departure flights to the island. Even with the traffic, the general vibe around the airport is laid back and casual at all the gates, arrival pavilions and shopping arcades. There are one -offs where flights booked back-to-back will increase the waiting and check-in process. The OGG is named to honor a local aviation pioneer Bertram J. Hogg, who is nothing short of a local legend in the area and eventually became director of flight operations at Hawaiian Airlines.
Once you check in and pass the TSA areas, visitors can relax in any of the waiting areas, check out the shops and kiosks around the main pavilion or look for a snack or heartier meal in the many restaurants and fast-food places there. Car rental facilities are conveniently located at a consolidated rental car facility close to the airport luggage claim area. There are shuttles available to local hotels, Uber and taxis to take you where you need to go.
If you’re flying out of Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui, here’s a practical rundown of what to expect regarding security, check-in, and airline-specific details.
Security Procedures & TSA Checkpoint Hours
The TSA checkpoint operates daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. CLEAR services are available from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. TSA PreCheck has moved to Checkpoint 1, located next to the ticketing lobby. Checkpoint 2 now serves as a general checkpoint during overflow periods.
Security wait times at OGG are generally short, averaging under 10 minutes. However, during peak hours (9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.), waits can extend to 15–20 minutes. Arriving early is advisable, especially on busy travel days like Thursday through Monday.
Recommended Check-In Times
For Hawaiian Airlines flights to North America, it’s recommended to arrive 3 hours before departure. For interisland flights, 2 hours is sufficient. Other airlines generally suggest arriving 2 hours early for domestic flights. If you’re returning a rental car or parking, consider allocating extra time.
Baggage & Agriculture Screening
Checked baggage is screened at stations located in front of airline check-in counters. Carry-on items are inspected at security checkpoints. Be prepared to open your bags for x-ray inspections. Additionally, all departing passengers must pass through agricultural inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Airline-Specific Information
- Hawaiian Airlines: Check-in is at Lobby 8 near the central building. Online and mobile check-in opens 23 hours before departure.
- Alaska Airlines: Offers self-service check-in between 1 and 24 hours before departure.
- American Airlines: Ticket counter operates daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. Note that cash or checks are not accepted at this location.
- Southwest & United Airlines: Both airlines operate from the main terminal. For specific check-in procedures and policies, it’s best to consult directly with the airline.
Address: 1 Kahului Airport Rd., Kahului, HI 96732
For more information check www.hawaii.gov/ogg
Check out my guide to visiting Maui airport here for more details and tips
Shuttle pick up service
Arrange your shuttle pick up from Maui Airport here for booking a reservation
Here’s a quick tour of Kahalui airport and what to expect coming and leaving Maui.
Lihue Airport (LIH)
Arriving Lihue airport is a fantastic experience and breath taking with views of the gorgeous coastlines, airport runway, rugged mountains rolling downhill to the bays and gorgeous beaches with palm trees. Less than two miles from downtown Lihue, the airport has easy access to places in the middle, north shore to south shore areas of the island in a very short drive. It doesn’t take too much time to discover some of Kauai’s amazing beaches and outdoor activities and hikes you can do immediately.
The one level terminal is casual and exudes an island heritage with occasional local entertainers singing or dancing hula for guests checking in or wandering around the airport. Car rentals from the airport are across the street in their own kiosk stands. Also, you can take Uber and taxis to take you where you need to go around the island.
Address: 3901 Mokulele Loop, Lihue, HI 96766
For more information check www.hawaii.gov/lih
If you’re flying out of Lihue Airport (LIH) on Kauai, here’s a practical overview to help you navigate the airport efficiently.
Security Procedures & TSA Checkpoint Hours
Lihue Airport’s main TSA checkpoint operates daily from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Additional satellite checkpoints (#2 and #3) open during peak travel times to accommodate increased passenger flow.
Peak security wait times typically occur between 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., and again from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The busiest travel days are Thursday through Sunday, so plan accordingly. TSA PreCheck is available, though hours may vary based on operational needs.
Recommended Check-In Times
For a smooth experience, it’s advisable to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. Hawaiian Airlines recommends arriving 2.5 hours early for flights to the mainland U.S., with check-in closing 45 minutes prior to departure. American Airlines opens its ticket counter 3 hours before departure, with a check-in cut-off 45 minutes prior. Alaska Airlines suggests arriving 2.5 hours early, especially if you need ticket counter assistance.
Baggage Policies & Agricultural Inspection
Checked baggage is accepted during ticket counter hours, typically no more than 4 hours before departure. Carry-on items are screened at security checkpoints. Additionally, all departing passengers must undergo an agricultural inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species. Be prepared to open your bags for inspection, and refrain from sealing coolers or boxes until after the process.
Airline-Specific Information
Lihue Airport serves several major airlines, including:
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- United Airlines
- WestJet
All ticket counters and passenger check-in areas are located on the ground level of the Kawakami Terminal. For specific check-in procedures and policies, it’s best to consult directly with your airline.
For the most current information on wait times and terminal changes, consider checking your airline’s website or the official Lihue Airport site before your trip.
Kauai airport shuttle
Arrange your shuttle pick up from Kauai Airport here for booking a reservation
Here’s a quick look at Lihue in this video clip and views of the airport and arrivals to Lihue.
Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
The entry into Honolulu International airport is spectacular with the crystal blue ocean, green and lush hillsides with Waikiki and Diamond Head welcome you when you splash down the runway. The central hub location for all the other islands, Honolulu airport is busy but located just 10 miles from downtown Honolulu and a little further out to Waikiki.
Tropical plants and landscaping and a nice central outdoor park allow passengers to walk outside and lounge in the two park areas of the airport. You can also visit upscale shopping venues, food courts and nice dining venues with views of the airport area. Updated ticketing entries makes the arrivals and check-in pleasant even through the TSA areas easy and efficient into the main lounge and waiting venues inside the airport.
Outside you’ll find car rental shuttles take you directly to your rental car brands from the arrival zones. Also, there are shuttles available to local hotels, Uber and taxis to take you where you need to go.
Honolulu Airport has a separate check in arrival and departure area for interisland travel, so if you are traveling interisland you either have to take a shuttle from the main arrival areas or walk from the main terminal to the adjoining inter-island terminal close by.
The Honolulu airport code or HNL is what you will see predominantly used for travel to Hawaii with Honolulu as the hub.
Navigating HNL Efficiently
Terminal Transfers – Inter-island Terminal to Main Terminal: 8-12 minute walk or 5 minutes via shuttle (runs every 5-7 minutes)
International Arrivals to Domestic Departures: 15-minute walk, follow purple signs
Peak Times to Avoid – Domestic Arrivals: Typically busiest 11am-2pm – Inter-island
Departures: Heaviest 6-8am and 4-6pm – TSA Security: Allow 45+ minutes during peak times (weekends, holidays)
Express Routes If arriving international with only carry-on luggage, use the International Arrivals bypass corridor (follow green signs) to save up to 20 minutes.
Accessibility Services – Wheelchair assistance: Available at all gates, request 48 hours in advance through airline – Electric cart service: Available for long-distance terminal transfers – Companion restrooms: Located near Gates 12, 27, and in the International Terminal
Address: 300 Rodgers Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96819
For more information check www.hawaii.gov/hnl
If you’re flying out of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, here’s a practical overview to help you navigate the airport efficiently.
Security Procedures & TSA Checkpoint Hours
HNL has multiple TSA checkpoints with varying operating hours:
- Checkpoint 1A (Mauka): 6:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m.
- Checkpoint 1B (Makai): 4:15 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
- Checkpoint 2: Open as needed from 9:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
- Checkpoint 3: 4:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
- Checkpoint 4: 5:15 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Checkpoint 5: 9:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Checkpoint 1B offers dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes during its operating hours.
Recommended Check-In Times
The airport advises passengers to arrive at least:
- 2 hours before overseas flights
- 90 minutes before interisland flights
If you’re parking or returning a rental car, consider adding at least 30 minutes to your arrival time.
For Hawaiian Airlines flights:
- North America flights: Arrive 2.5 hours prior
- Neighbor Island flights: Arrive 1.5 hours prior
- International flights: Arrive 3 hours prior
All check-in steps, including baggage drop, must be completed no later than 30 minutes before departure for interisland flights and 1 hour for international flights.
Baggage Policies & Agricultural Inspection
Checked baggage is typically tagged to your final destination. However, if your claim ticket lists HNL, you’ll need to retrieve your luggage at Honolulu and recheck it for connecting flights.
All departing passengers must undergo an agricultural inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species. Be prepared to open your bags for inspection, and refrain from sealing coolers or boxes until after the process.
Airline-Specific Information
HNL serves numerous airlines, including:
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- American Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- United Airlines
- WestJet
For specific check-in procedures and policies, it’s best to consult directly with your airline.
For the most current information on wait times and terminal changes, consider checking your airline’s website or the official Daniel K. Inouye International Airport site before your trip.
Shuttle pick up service
Arrange your shuttle pick up from Honolulu Airport here for booking a reservation
Check out this video highlight to Honolulu International airport and how to get around International, domestic and inter-island terminals.
Flying to Hawaii is always exciting and seeing the islands from above is such a rush, check out this awesome video on arriving at Honolulu International Airport on a smooth landing.
Hoolehua, Molokai Airport (MKK)
A small-scale airport interisland service servicing the main airport hub at Honolulu International Airport. Car rental center, taxi service, courtesy car service or pre-arranged passenger service can be arranged with your hotel or booking site.
Address: 3980 Airport Loop, Ho’olehua, HI 96729
For more information check Molokai Airport (hawaii.gov)
Molokai Airport (MKK) in Hoʻolehua offers a straightforward travel experience, primarily serving interisland flights. Here’s what you need to know about security procedures, check-in times, baggage policies, and airline-specific information:
Security Procedures
Security screening at Molokai Airport is managed by the TSA. Given the airport’s smaller size, wait times are typically minimal, often under a minute. However, it’s still advisable to arrive early to accommodate any unforeseen delays. TSA PreCheck is not available at this airport.
All departing passengers are required to undergo an agricultural inspection to prevent the spread of invasive species. Be prepared to open your bags for inspection, and avoid sealing coolers or boxes until after this process.
Check-In Times
Check-in counters for all airlines are located within the main terminal. It’s recommended to arrive at least 60–90 minutes before your flight. For passengers connecting to mainland flights, consult your airline regarding baggage check-through and the availability of agricultural inspectors for screening.
For example, Mokulele Airlines operates the following ticket counter hours:
- Monday–Thursday, Saturday: 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Baggage Policies
Checked baggage is accepted during ticket counter hours. If you’re connecting to a mainland flight, most airlines will check your luggage through to your final destination. However, it’s best to confirm this with your airline at check-in.
Carry-on items are screened at the security checkpoint. Ensure that your baggage complies with TSA regulations to facilitate a smooth screening process.
Airline-Specific Information
Molokai Airport is primarily served by Mokulele Airlines, offering interisland flights. All ticketing, check-in, and baggage claim services are centralized within the main terminal. For specific policies regarding baggage allowances, pre-boarding options, and other services, consult directly with your airline.
For the most current information on wait times and terminal changes, consider checking your airline’s website or the official Molokai Airport site before your trip.
Welcome to Hawaii and enjoy your visit to the islands, I love watching this aloha video – it always puts you in a good mood.
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Conclusion on this Hawaii Airport Guide
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Author Bio – Noel Morata
Noel Morata is a freelance photographer/journalist and travel and lifestyle blogger. Having lived in Hawaii for over 15 years, I’ve explored all the historic and cultural sites, tried delicious traditional food, fusion and local style dishes and learned a lot about growing and sustainability.
Hawaii for me is ever changing and I visit many of these places regularly for inspiration, changes that may occur, seasonality and cultural practices. I hope to share with you all the fascinating things and places I’ve learned grown appreciation for and hope that you will find the information helpful to visiting the islands.
Having visiting most of the island chain, I’ve gone through all of these major airports and have spent a lot of time in each one of them. Hopefully this quick airport guide gives you a good idea about each destination airport that you will be visiting.
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