Hawaii Airports Guide to Locations, Facilities, and Transportation

Hawaii airports are the main gateways connecting travelers to the islands, with five major state airports welcoming most visitors. From the busy Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Oahu to Kahului Airport on Maui, each airport plays a vital role for tourists and residents alike. Whether flying in from the mainland or traveling between islands, knowing about Hawaii’s main airports helps make every trip easier.

The state of Hawaii also operates several smaller regional airports to reach more remote spots and support local travel. These airports are essential for inter-island flights, cargo, and emergency needs. Learning about all the key airports helps travelers plan smoother island adventures and understand how Hawaii stays connected.

This article provides helpful details about airport services, locations, and what makes each one unique. For a full list and map of the main airports, visit A Guide to Hawaii’s 5 Major Airports or the Hawaii Department of Transportation.

Overview of Hawaii’s Airport System

Hawaii’s airport system connects the islands and the world. Each airport varies in size, purpose, and management at the state and federal levels.

Airport Categories

Hawaii’s airports are classified according to their use and size. The main classifications are international airports, inter- or regional airports, and smaller general aviation airfields.

International airports like Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu and Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island handle flights from outside the United States and between the islands. Regional airports, such as Hilo International Airport (ITO), focus mainly on flights between the islands and parts of the mainland.

Smaller airports and airfields, including Kawaihāpai Airfield (HDH) and Dillingham Airfield (HDH), serve local or private aircraft and sometimes flight training or emergency services. The state lists all public-use and military-run airports within its official airport system.

State of Hawaii Governance

The State of Hawaii manages most of the airport facilities across the islands. The Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) is responsible for the airport system’s day-to-day operations, planning, and modernization projects.

HDOT oversees inspection, security, infrastructure upkeep, and improvements at key airports such as Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Kona International Airport. It works to modernize terminals, parking lots, and baggage claim systems, as described for major airports in Hawaii.

Hawaii’s airport system is unique because all major airports are governed by the state instead of individual city or county authorities. The HDOT also coordinates with other state agencies to ensure safety, economic development, and environmental protection in airport operations.

Federal Aviation Administration Role

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is a key federal agency for airport safety and regulation in Hawaii. It sets the safety standards for all public-use airports and airspace within the state. The FAA also oversees air traffic control, certification of pilots and aircraft, and provides grants to improve airport infrastructure.

The FAA works closely with the State of Hawaii to ensure that airports in the islands comply with national requirements. This partnership is essential given Hawaii’s location in the Pacific and its need for efficient air travel between islands and long-distance destinations.

The FAA’s regulations and guidance shape much of Hawaii’s airport system’s operation, expansion projects, and modernization efforts. The FAA also monitors airport security, environmental impacts, and emergency response procedures across the state.

Major International Airports

Hawaii’s largest airports connect the islands with the mainland United States and several international cities. Each airport has its own facilities, routes, and unique atmosphere.

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, also known as Honolulu International Airport or HNL, is Hawaii’s busiest and largest airport. It is located on the island of Oahu, just a few miles from downtown Honolulu. Most international and mainland flights arrive and depart from here. The airport has three terminals and serves as a central hub for Hawaiian Airlines.

Amenities at HNL include a wide range of food options, shops, baggage services, and rental car facilities. Hotel shuttles and public transportation stops are also available right at the airport. Passengers often find the garden areas and open-air walkways relaxing.

Direct flights are available from HNL to Japan, Canada, Australia, South Korea, and many U.S. cities. More details about HNL can be found at the official airport website.

Kahului Airport (OGG)

Kahului Airport (OGG) is the main airport on Maui. It serves as the primary gateway for visitors to Maui’s resorts and attractions. Located in central Maui, OGG is about 3 miles from downtown Kahului.

OGG handles both domestic and limited international flights. Passengers coming from major U.S. cities will find nonstop routes, but compared to HNL, there are fewer international connections. The airport offers rental car sites on the grounds as well as taxi and shuttle services.

The terminal is modern and easy to navigate. Travelers will find food stands, convenience stores, and car rental kiosks inside. OGG is busiest in the afternoon when most flights arrive and depart. Read more about Maui’s airport in this guide to Hawaii’s major airports.

Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA)

The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, known as Kona International Airport or KOA, serves the west coast of the Big Island. It is located about 7 miles from Kailua-Kona town.

KOA is known for its open-air terminals, which give it a different feel from other airports. The airport accepts direct flights from the U.S. mainland and a few international destinations, such as Japan. It is a popular entry point for travelers heading to resorts along the Kohala Coast and areas like Waikoloa and Kona.

Facilities at KOA include baggage claim, food and drink vendors, and nearby rental car agencies. Free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal, and ground transportation options include shuttles, taxis, and buses. This complete guide to Hawaii’s airports provides more information.

Hilo International Airport (ITO)

Hilo International Airport (ITO) is located on the east side of the Big Island, about 2 miles from Hilo town. While not as busy as KOA, it remains essential for interisland travel and flights from the mainland.

ITO handles mostly flights connecting Hilo to Honolulu and other Hawaiian islands. During peak travel seasons, there are also some direct flights to the West Coast. The airport is smaller but easy to use, with short walking distances between check-in, security, and the gates.

Amenities at Hilo International include a small selection of food counters, car rental desks, and parking facilities. The airport’s location makes it a good choice for visiting Volcanoes National Park or staying in eastern Hawaii. See the list of major Hawaii airports for more details.

Main Airports by Island

Hawaii has several major airports spread across its central islands. Each airport serves as a key gateway for visitors, making reaching different parts of the state easier.

Oahu’s Airports

Oahu is home to Hawaii’s busiest and largest airport, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Located in Honolulu, HNL handles most international and mainland US flights. Travelers flying to any Hawaiian island often connect through this airport.

HNL features three terminals, with clear signage and efficient transportation between them. Amenities include restaurants, shops, rental cars, and free Wi-Fi. As the state’s central hub, the airport offers flights to Asia, North America, and other Pacific destinations. Shuttle buses and taxis provide direct access to Waikiki, downtown Honolulu, and other parts of Oahu. For more, see this guide to Hawaii’s major airports.

Maui’s Airports

Maui’s main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG), located on the island’s northern side. OGG supports direct flights from many cities in the continental US and connects easily to other Hawaiian islands. It is the main entry point for Lahaina, Kihei, and Hana visitors.

The airport has one main terminal, offering car rentals, shops, and eating places. Kahului Airport has a reputation for fast check-ins and short lines due to its moderate size. The airport is about 5 miles from downtown Kahului and close to the island’s major resorts. Travelers can also reach the smaller Kapalua Airport (JHM) in West Maui, but most flights arrive at OGG. For more details on the airport, visit this overview of Hawaii airports.

Big Island Airports

The Big Island has two main airports: Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) near Kailua-Kona, and Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east side. KOA mainly serves flights from the US mainland and inter-island routes. It is an outdoor airport with open-air walkways and easy rental car access.

Hilo International Airport mainly serves inter-island flights. It is smaller but provides good access to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The distance between the two airports is about 75 miles by road, so choosing the right airport based on your stay is essential. For more, see a helpful guide to Big Island airports.

Kauai’s Airports

Lihue Airport (LIH) is the main airport on Kauai. It is near Lihue and provides direct flights to the mainland US and other Hawaiian islands. The airport is small and easy to navigate, making arrivals and departures quick.

Lihue Airport features Hawaiian-themed architecture, short walks between gates, and basic amenities like shops, food stands, and car rentals. It is close to popular destinations such as Poipu, Princeville, and Waimea Canyon. LIH is the only airport on the island offering daily commercial flights, providing the main entry point for those traveling to Kauai. More information is available in this complete guide to Hawaii’s airports.

Regional and Inter-Island Airports

Hawaii’s smaller airports help people travel between islands for work, family, or fun. Each one serves its purpose and has unique features, making inter-island trips easier and less stressful.

Molokai Airport

Molokai Airport is located seven miles northwest of Kaunakakai, the largest town on the island of Molokai. This airport is Molokai’s primary gateway and a lifeline for the local community. Most flights are short inter-island routes, mostly coming from Oahu and Maui.

The airport is small and not busy, which means short lines and a slower pace. Travelers will find only basic services like car rentals, restrooms, and a few vending machines. No big shopping or dining options are available.

Molokai Airport is popular among visitors who want a quieter, less crowded travel experience. Airlines like Mokulele Airlines operate several flights per day here. Its runways can handle small commuter planes, but not large jets.

Lanai Airport

Lanai Airport sits about three miles southwest of Lanai City, the island’s main town. It serves as the sole airport for the island of Lanai and handles primarily inter-island flights from Honolulu and Maui.

This airport is compact and easy to navigate. Services are limited to basic needs, such as rental cars and restrooms. With minimal bustle, passengers often appreciate the relaxed arrival and departure.

Lanai Airport is vital for residents and workers who commute to other islands. It also serves tourists visiting the beaches or golf resorts. Mokulele Airlines runs regular service, and the airport can accommodate small aircraft.

Kapalua Airport

Kapalua Airport is located in West Maui, about six miles north of Lahaina. It mainly serves the resort areas of Kapalua, Kaanapali, and Napili. This airport is sometimes called Kapalua-West Maui Airport.

The terminal is small, with just one gate and basic amenities. Parking is close, and lines are usually short. No major food or shopping is available, but car rentals are available on site.

Kapalua Airport is convenient for travelers staying in the west Maui resort areas. Most flights connect to Honolulu or other Hawaiian islands. The airport does not handle large planes, so arrivals are usually on small regional aircraft. See the guide to Hawaii airports and terminals for a full list of Hawaii airports.

Smaller Island Airports

Some Hawaiian airports handle fewer flights and serve smaller locations. These airports are essential for residents, short-distance travel, and connecting remote communities.

Hana Airport

Hana Airport is located on Maui’s eastern side, about 3 miles from the small town of Hana. This airport mainly supports regional flights and charter planes rather than large commercial jets. Airlines use small aircraft to connect Hana with Kahului and other parts of Maui.

Facilities at Hana Airport are minimal. Travelers can expect a single runway and a small terminal building. No shops or restaurants are on site, but car rentals and taxis are available nearby.

Hana Airport is mainly used by people wanting to visit Hana or explore the famous Hana Highway. It benefits locals and visitors wishing to avoid the long, winding drive from central Maui.

Kalaupapa Airport

Kalaupapa Airport is on the north shore of Molokai, providing a vital link to the Kalaupapa National Historical Park. It is important for residents and visitors because Kalaupapa is isolated by steep sea cliffs.

The airport has limited services, with flights mainly arriving from Honolulu or other parts of Molokai. Planes landing here are usually small, seating only a few passengers. One runway and a basic terminal are mainly used for arrivals and departures. The quiet atmosphere reflects the restricted population and the historical park’s rules.

Travelers visiting Kalaupapa must arrange special access due to its unique history as a former leprosy settlement. Most trips are coordinated ahead of time, and the airport is a key gateway for these visits.

Waimea-Kohala Airport

Waimea-Kohala Airport is located on the Big Island, near Waimea in the north. This small public airport supports short flights within Hawaii and serves the surrounding ranch lands and small communities.

There is a single asphalt runway and a small terminal with simple services. The airport does not offer as many flights as Kona or Hilo, but it still connects residents to larger airports. Most travelers using Waimea-Kohala are locals, business people, or tourists exploring the island’s northern part.

Flight schedules can change with demand, but year-round service links this region with the rest of Hawaii. Hawaii’s airfields and airports provide more information about smaller airports.

Domestic and International Connections

Hawaii airports connect travelers with the US mainland, nearby islands, and several international cities. Each airport plays a specific role in linking Hawaii with the rest of the world and supporting efficient travel within the state.

US Mainland Flights

Most direct flights between Hawaii and the US mainland operate from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu. This airport is the primary gateway, with frequent connections to cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Las Vegas. Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui, Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island, and Lihue Airport (LIH) on Kauai also serve nonstop flights to West Coast cities.

Major airlines flying these routes include Hawaiian Airlines, United, Delta, Alaska Airlines, and American Airlines. These flights are frequent and widespread for tourists and locals alike. Early morning and late-night departures are common, especially for flights to the West Coast.

For travelers, Hawaii’s largest airports feature modern terminals and onsite amenities, making transfers and connections straightforward. Ticketing and check-in wait times can vary, with longer lines during peak travel seasons.

Inter-Island Connections

Traveling within the Hawaiian Islands is usually done by air, as no bridges or regular ferries connect the main islands. The leading inter-island carriers are Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest, which offer quick flights between Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Flights between the islands are short, often taking less than an hour from takeoff to landing. This makes day trips and multi-island vacations convenient. Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu is the central hub for this traffic.

Multiple daily flights are available, and smaller airlines like Mokulele also offer service with smaller planes. Shuttle services inside larger airports help passengers move between terminals to connect inter-island flights.

International Destinations

Hawaii handles several nonstop flights to international cities, mainly through Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. Key destinations include Japan (Tokyo, Osaka), South Korea (Seoul), Australia, New Zealand, and sometimes Canada. These routes are busiest during holiday periods and the tourist season.

Japanese carriers like Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, and Hawaiian Airlines offer regular international flights. Kahului and Kona airports have a few seasonal or charter international flights, but most traffic passes through Honolulu.

Customs and immigration facilities at Honolulu are modern, and arriving passengers clear US entry procedures before leaving the airport. Most international flights are long-haul and timed to connect smoothly with US mainland and regional flights, helping travelers plan their trips more efficiently. More details on routes and services can be found in the Hawaii airport guides.

Airlines Serving Hawaii

Several airlines fly to Hawaii from the mainland United States, Asia, and the Pacific. Some carriers focus on direct routes from larger cities, while others specialize in short hops between the Hawaiian Islands.

Major Carriers

Most travelers arrive in Hawaii using well-known airlines. These include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, which offer nonstop flights to Hawaii’s main airports, such as Honolulu (HNL), Maui (OGG), and Kona (KOA). Many flights come from Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco.

International carriers such as Air Canada, Japan Airlines, and ANA also provide service between Hawaii and countries like Canada and Japan. These airlines focus on comfort and direct connections for long-distance passengers.

Hawaiian Airlines is the state’s largest airline, offering the widest range of flights between Hawaii and the mainland United States, as well as destinations in Asia and the South Pacific. The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport website provides detailed lists of active airlines at major Honolulu airports.

Inter-Island Airlines

Most visitors wanting to travel between islands use inter-island airlines. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines are the two leading carriers for quick hops between Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Hawaiian Airlines operates frequent daily flights with jet service and larger planes, focusing on comfort and reliability. Southwest Airlines entered the market more recently and offers competitive fares and similar routes.

These airlines make it easy for travelers to plan flexible trips to multiple islands, usually with many daily flights. The main airports served for inter-island travel are Honolulu (HNL), Kahului (OGG), Lihue (LIH), and Hilo (ITO). You can see more about available airlines at Hilo International Airport.

Mokulele Airlines Spotlight

Mokulele Airlines is a smaller regional airline focusing on connecting less-served destinations across the Hawaiian Islands. It uses small aircraft, usually Cessna Grand Caravans, which allows it to land at smaller airports not served by the larger jets.

Mokulele offers regular flights to places such as Molokai and Lanai and connections from less populated airports on the Big Island and Maui. Its flights are known for scenic views and a unique island experience.

Unlike larger carriers, Mokulele provides a more intimate experience, runs on a flexible schedule, and is a key choice for travel between small airports that carriers like Hawaiian and Southwest do not service. For more information, visit the Hawaiian Airlines destinations page.

Airport Facilities and Services

Hawaii airports offer a range of helpful services for travelers. Important areas like arrivals and departures, baggage claim, and ground transportation are easy to find and use at all major Hawaii airports.

Arrivals and Departures

Dedicated terminals serve domestic and international flights at Hawaii’s largest airports, such as Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport. Digital boards show real-time flight information, including arrivals and departures, to keep travelers updated on delays, gate changes, and boarding times.

Security and customs lines are marked. Staff members guide visitors through the process and help them find their gates. Lounges and seating areas are available while waiting for flights.

For convenience, travelers can find restrooms, food stands, and shops close to the main gates. Many terminals have accessible features for travelers with reduced mobility. Visitors can check the official airport amenities guide for a full list of services.

Baggage Claim

Baggage claim areas at Hawaii airports are usually on the terminal’s lower level. Bags are delivered to wide conveyor belts, making them easy to locate. Clear signs direct travelers from their gate to the baggage area.

Luggage carts are available for rent near the claim belts. If a bag is missing or damaged, passengers can talk to airline staff at nearby help desks.

Most busy airports offer lost and found services and assistance with oversized or special items. Baggage claim spaces are monitored for safety; announcements keep travelers informed about their luggage status.

Ground Transportation

Ground transportation options are found just outside the baggage claim exits. Taxis, ride apps, public buses, and shuttles offer rides to hotels, homes, and popular spots. The main airports have marked areas for each service, making it simple to find a ride.

Rental car counters are often located in separate buildings or across the street, but clear signs point the way. Some airports provide free shuttle service to the rental car lots.

Travelers can use a table of options:

Service	Location	Booking Method
Taxis	Curbside	Walk-up
Ride apps	Designated zones	App-based
Public buses	Curbside stops	Ticket/Pass
Hotel Shuttles	Shuttle center	Reservation
Car Rentals	Rental car building	Reservation

Fares and schedules are available at airport information desks and online. The airport transportation page provides more details on specific services.

Military and Government Use

Hawaii’s airports are essential for national defense and public services. Several fields support military training, defense, and important government activities.

Hickam Air Force Base

Hickam Air Force Base is one of Hawaii’s most vital military installations. Located near Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, it serves as a central hub for the U.S. Air Force in the Pacific. The base supports air refueling, cargo flights, and troop movement.

The base also shares runways with the public airport, efficiently using resources and space. Security is strict and access is limited, ensuring the safety of both personnel and civilians. Hickam is active in international exercises and plays a key role in emergencies in the Pacific region.

Crews stationed here often support missions for defense, disaster relief, and humanitarian efforts. The strong military presence helps keep Hawaii secure and ready for rapid response.

Government Operations

Many government agencies beyond the military use Hawaii’s airports. The Department of Transportation manages most airfields and works with military branches and local governments. Several airports, such as Kalaeloa Airport, are set up for joint military and civil use, meaning they can handle both military and government aircraft as needed.

Government flights may include emergency medical services, search and rescue missions, and official travel. Some airports are equipped for night vision training or other specialized operations that the Army or state agencies need.

Facilities like Kawaihapai Airfield have special agreements between the Army and the state, permitting shared use for military and civilian needs. These arrangements help maintain strong infrastructure and rapid government response for public safety and defense. This comprehensive airport list details Hawaii’s government and military airfields.

Airports Near Key Destinations

Major airports in Hawaii give travelers convenient access to popular spots, including national parks and scenic towns. Choosing the right airport can make travel to these destinations easier and faster.

Volcanoes National Park Access

Hilo International Airport (ITO) is the main gateway for visitors traveling to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. It is located about 30 miles from the park entrance, which translates to a drive of roughly 45 minutes.

Hilo International Airport offers frequent direct flights from Honolulu and other islands. It accepts flights from several airlines and provides car rental services on-site, making it convenient for visitors to get on the road quickly.

Kona International Airport (KOA) is another option on the west side of the Big Island, but the drive to the park from there takes about 2 hours. Flying into Hilo International Airport is the shortest and most practical choice for those who want to maximize their time at the park. More about Hawaii’s airports is available at Eco Lodges Anywhere.

Haleakala National Park Proximity

Kahului Airport (OGG) in central Maui is the main point of arrival for visitors to Haleakalā National Park. The airport is about 14 miles from the park’s main entrance, making it the most direct option for access.

Kahului Airport connects to many major cities in the mainland United States and inter-island routes, giving travelers options for reaching Maui. Rental cars are widely available at the airport, which is essential because public transportation options to the park are limited.

Visitors can start their drive up the slopes of Haleakalā within 30-40 minutes after leaving the airport. This convenience makes Kahului Airport the preferred arrival point for anyone planning to see sunrise on the summit or hike the crater’s trails. Details about Maui’s airport can be found at TravelAge West.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park Entry

Getting to Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokaʻi is unique due to the area’s isolated location and special access requirements. Most travelers arrive at Molokaʻi Airport (MKK), which has regular flights from Honolulu and other Hawaiian islands.

Once at Molokaʻi Airport, visitors must drive to the trailhead or airstrip, then either hike or join a guided tour to reach the Kalaupapa settlement. Due to steep sea cliffs, the park is not directly accessible by road from the rest of the island.

Federal regulations require visitors to get a permit in advance and restrict the number of visitors per day. Anyone interested in the history or scenery of Kalaupapa should read up on access procedures before traveling. The official Hawaii airports website has more information about all state airports.

Princeville Area Travel

The Princeville area on the north shore of Kauaʻi is served mainly by Lihue Airport (LIH), the island’s primary airport. Lihue Airport receives direct flights from Honolulu, other Hawaiian islands, and several cities on the U.S. mainland.

After arriving at Lihue Airport, travelers must drive about 30 miles north to reach Princeville, which takes 45-60 minutes. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy for visitors to begin their journey to the north shore resorts and beaches.

There is no airport in Princeville; all commercial flights to Kauaʻi arrive at Lihue. Lihue Airport is designed to handle domestic and inter-island traffic, so it has ample capacity for visitors heading to Princeville and other island areas. Find more about the major Hawaiian airports at KAYAK’s Hawaii airports guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hawaii airports range from busy international hubs to smaller regional fields that connect the islands. Travelers have several options when choosing which airport to fly into or use for inter-island trips.

How many international airports are there in Hawaii?

Hawaii has four airports that accept international flights: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu (HNL), Kahului Airport on Maui (OGG), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport on the Big Island (KOA), and Lihue Airport on Kauai (LIH).

Which Hawaiian airport is the most affordable for travelers?

Flights into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu are often the least expensive. This is the largest airport that gets the most direct flights from the mainland. More competition usually leads to lower airfare prices.

Can you provide a complete list of airports in Hawaii?

Hawaii has several airports across its islands. The major ones are Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Kahului Airport (OGG), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), Lihue Airport (LIH), and Hilo International Airport (ITO). Each island also has small commuter airports for shorter inter-island flights.

Are there multiple airports on the island of Maui?

Maui has more than one airport. Kahului Airport (OGG) is the main airport that handles most commercial and international flights. Maui also has Kapalua Airport (JHM) and Hana Airport (HNM), which are mainly used for regional and commuter flights.

Is there a distinction between Honolulu and Oahu airports?

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is located on the island of Oahu, near Honolulu. Some call it the Honolulu Airport, but it is the main airport for all of Oahu. There is no separate “Oahu Airport,” but smaller airports are used for inter-island flights.

Where can I find a map of Hawaiian airports?

Official Hawaii travel and transportation websites offer maps showing the location of all airports in Hawaii. The Hawaii Department of Transportation also offers airport maps and other useful information for travelers.