Hawaii Airports
Each of the Hawaiian islands have at least one airport, some much smaller than others. Most flights route through Honolulu International Airport to other inter-island airports, however there has been an increase in direct flights to Maui and the Big Island over the past few years with non-stops from California and Japan to airports in Maui or Hawaii.
Below is an overview of the most used airports and a complete list of commercial airports used in Hawaii.
Oahu - Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
The Island of Oahu boasts the main gateway to Hawaii and one of the world's busiest airports. Despite this, Honolulu International Airport has maintained consistent arrival and departure times and has ample, affordable parking.
Maui - Kahului Airport (OGG)
Maui's main airport, especially for direct or international flights. Located near the center of Maui, Kahului Airport is a 45 minute drive to West Maui (Lahaina and Kaanapali), a popular spot for vacationers to stay.
Maui - Kapalua Airport (JHM)
Located in West Maui, this small airport accommodates inter-island flights and is conveniently close to Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili, and Kapalua - all popular vacationing spots in Maui.
Hawaii - Kona International Airport (KOA)
The actual island of Hawaii, more commonly referred to as the Big Island, holds Kona International Airport. This is the primary airport on the island of Hawaii, located on the west side in Keahole. This airport services both international and inter-island flights.
Kauai - Lihue Airport (LIH)
This airport services the island of Kauai. Amazingly, this tiny airport is able to handle both overseas and inter-island flights.
Molokai Airport (MKK) & Lanai Airport (LNY)
There are no direct flights to either Molokai or Lanai airports. They are serviced only by inter-island flights, usually routed through Honolulu (HNL).
City | Airport Code | Airport Name | Island |
Honolulu | HNL | Honolulu International Airport | Oahu |
Hilo | ITO | Hilo International Airport | Hawaii |
Kailua/Kona | KOA | Kona International Airport | Hawaii |
Kahului | OGG | Kahului Airport | Maui |
Kapalua | JHM | Kapalua Airport | Maui |
Hana | HNM | Hana Airport | Maui |
Lanai City | LNY | Lanai Airport | Lanai |
Kaunakakai | MKK | Molokai Airport | Molokai |
Kalaupapa | LUP | Kaluapapa Airport | Molokai |
Lihue | LIH | Lihue Airport | Kauai |
Island Hopping
Inter-island flights are the best way to island hop, at least until the Super Ferry returns. There are several smaller airlines dedicated to this purpose including go! Mokulele, Pacific Wings, and Island Air. Larger airlines, like Hawaiian, also provide inter-island flights. The best deals can often be found by booking directly through the airline's website. Happy Travels!
Customs
It is important to note that Hawaii's Department of Agriculture requires an agricultural declaration upon arrival to any of the islands. This is to prevent the spread of bugs, invasive plant species, or other pests from disrupting Hawaii's delicate and unique ecosystems.
Upon flying out of a Hawaiian airport, bags must also be screened and tagged by the Department of Agriculture.