List of airports in Hawaii
Hawaii’s rugged volcanic landscapes, crystal‑clear waters, and vibrant culture attract millions of tourists every year. Whether you’re arriving for a beach getaway, an adventure tour, or a family reunion, understanding the island’s airport system can streamline your travel plans and help you find the best flight options. This guide provides a detailed list of Hawaii’s airports, from the major international hubs to the charming regional airstrips that connect remote communities.
H2: Why Knowing Hawaii’s Airports Matters
Traveling to the Aloha State involves navigating a network of airports that cover its five inhabited islands. Whether you’re booking a long‑haul flight into Honolulu or a short hop from one island to another, the right airport can save you time, money, and inconvenience. By familiarizing yourself with the airport codes, locations, and services available on each island, you can:
- Plan multi‑island itineraries with ease
- Choose the most cost‑effective flights (regional carriers often offer lower fares)
- Avoid last‑minute surprises such as restricted operating hours or limited services
- Optimize ground transport arrangements (shuttle, rental car, or public transit options)
H2: Table – List of Airports in Hawaii (2025)
| Airport Code | Airport Name | Island | City/Town | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HNL | Honolulu International Airport | Oahu | Honolulu | Primary international gateway |
| OGG | Kahului Airport | Maui | Kahului | Major hub for air travel to Maui |
| LIH | Lihue Airport | Kauai | Lihue | Main airport for Kauai |
| KOA | Kahului Airport | Oahu | Kahului | – |
| ITO | Hilo International Airport | Hawai‘i Island | Hilo | Largest regional airport |
| HWO | Mokulele Airport | Hawai‘i Island | Holualoa | Regional destination |
| LHE | Prince Kuhio Airport | Lanai | Lanai City | Private, seasonal flights |
| AUN | Kahului Airport | Maui | Kahului | – |
| NAO | Kalaupapa Airport | Molokai | Kalaupapa | Restricted by USFS |
| UOI | U.S. Coast Guard Air Station | Oahu | Honolulu | Military use |
| HUA | Molokai Airport | Molokai | Kaunakakai | Small regional facility |
| PHI | Puna Airport | Hawai‘i Island | Puna | Basic airstrip |
| TKR | Kekaha Airport | Kauai | Kekaha | Private/airdrop use |
The table focuses on airports with commercial or significant service. Smaller landing strips and private airfields are included for completeness.
H2: Major Airports & Their Key Features
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) – Serving as the main international gateway, HNL offers nonstop flights to North America, Asia, and the Pacific. It boasts modern facilities, duty‑free shops, and extensive ground transportation options.
Kahului Airport (OGG) – Located on Maui’s western side, OGG is a hub for United Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. It provides wide‑body services to international travelers and domestic flights to all the other Hawaiian islands.
Lihue Airport (LIH) – The principal gateway for Kauai, LIH offers flights to Honolulu and regional connections to Molokai and Lanai. The airport handles a mix of commercial, airline, and general aviation traffic.
Hilo International Airport (ITO) – Situated on Hawai‘i Island’s eastern side, ITO is the island’s busiest airport. Airlines like Hawaiian and Hawaiian Pacific Airlines operate daily services to Oahu and Maui.
H2: Small and Remote Airports – Keeping the Islands Connected
While the four major airports handle the bulk of tourist traffic, smaller airports such as Mokulele (HWO) and Puna (PHI) are essential for residents in remote communities. They provide limited commercial service and play a vital role in emergency response and medical evacuations.
H2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. How many airports serve the entire Hawaiian archipelago?
A1. There are 14 airports with commercial or significant service across the five inhabited islands, ranging from large hubs to small regional facilities.
Q2. Which airport is best for budget travelers?
A2. Regional airports like Kahului (OGG) and Lihue (LIH) often offer lower fares and a wider selection of low‑cost carriers for inter‑island flights.
Q3. Are there direct flights from the mainland US to all Hawaiian islands?
A3. Honolulu (HNL) and Kahului (OGG) receive nonstop flights from most major US cities, while other islands generally require a connecting flight in Oahu or Maui.
Q4. How do I transfer from one island to another by air?
A4. Inter‑island flights are operated by Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and a few others. Be sure to check the airline’s scheduling and book in advance, especially during peak season.
Q5. What facilities are available at the smaller airports (e.g., Puna)?
A5. Smaller airports have basic amenities: a terminal office, limited ground transportation (taxis or ride‑hailing services), and sometimes a small cafe or convenience store. Check the specific airport’s website for detailed information.
H2: Resources & Further Reading
Hawaiian Department of Transportation – Airports & Heliports
FAA – Airport Data for Hawai‘i
Hawaiian Airlines – Airport Guide
Mokulele Airlines – Flight Network
- Travel + Leisure – Visiting Hawaii: Airline Guide
With this comprehensive overview, you’re prepared to navigate Hawaii’s airports confidently, ensuring your travel experience is as smooth and enjoyable as the islands themselves. Safe travels and mahalo!
