What is the closest major airport to Honolulu?
Ever wondered where the gateway to paradise is? The closest major airport to Honolulu is Honolulu International Airport (HNL). It’s a key hub with many international flights, welcoming millions each year. Opened in 1927, it covers 4,220 acres, making it a vital part of Oahu.
It connects travelers to North America, Asia, and Oceania. In 2023, it saw 21,188,678 passengers and 317,830 aircraft operations. Knowing this airport is crucial for your trip to paradise.

Key Takeaways
- Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the closest major airport to Honolulu.
- HNL is located just 6 miles from downtown Honolulu.
- The airport serves as a crucial hub with nonstop flights to North America, Asia, and Oceania.
- In 2023, HNL handled over 21 million passengers.
- The airport covers 4,220 acres, significantly contributing to Oahu’s infrastructure.
- It is essential for both leisure and business travelers heading to Hawaii.
Overview of Airports in Honolulu
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the main airport in Honolulu, O’ahu. It’s about 9 miles from Waikiki, making it easy for travelers to get to1. The airport has many amenities, like duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges, to make your trip better.
Key Features of Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
HNL airport sees a lot of traffic, with over 21 million passengers in 20232. It handles a lot of flights, thanks to its long runways. This makes landing and taking off efficient.
Runway Designation | Length (ft) |
---|---|
04L/22R | 6,955 |
04R/22L | 9,002 |
04W/22W (Water) | 3,000 |
08L/26R | 12,360 |
08R/26L | 12,000 |
08W/26W (Water) | 5,090 |
Importance of HNL as a Flight Hub
HNL is a key airport for flights to many places. Airlines like Hawaiian Airlines and American Airlines fly from here2. Flights from HNL to the West Coast are about 5-6 hours. To the East Coast, they take 9-11 hours1.
Getting to and from the airport is easy with Uber and taxis. This makes it simple to get to places like Waikiki.
What is the closest major airport to Honolulu?
Traveling to Honolulu is easy thanks to Honolulu International Airport (HNL). It’s just 6 miles from the city center. HNL is the closest major airport, making it easy for travelers to get around.
This airport is officially known as HNL. It’s a key entry point to Hawaii, serving many travelers.
Distance and Location of HNL
The airport is close to downtown Honolulu. This makes it the best airport near Honolulu for getting around. In 2023, HNL welcomed 21,188,678 passengers, showing its importance.
Notable Airlines Operating at HNL
Many airlines fly from Honolulu International Airport. You can find flights with American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Hawaiian Airlines. In 2023, HNL saw 317,830 aircraft operations, making it a key air traffic hub2.
The airport also handled 615,136 US tons of cargo in 2023. This shows its role in both passenger and freight travel2.
Other Airports Near Honolulu
There are several airports near Honolulu besides the main Honolulu International Airport (HNL). These airports offer access to Hawaii’s beautiful islands. They are great options for flights to various destinations across the region.
Kahului Airport (OGG)
Kahului Airport is about 100 miles from Honolulu and serves Maui. It has many domestic and international flights. This makes it a key entry point for visitors to Maui.
Lihue Airport (LIH)
Lihue Airport is around 102 miles from Honolulu and is for Kauai. It’s perfect for those wanting to see Kauai’s beautiful landscapes and beaches. It offers several flight options.
Kona International Airport (KOA)
Kona International Airport is about 164 miles from Honolulu and is on the Big Island’s west side. It connects to many U.S. mainland cities. It’s great for both leisure and business travelers.
Comparison of Distances from HNL
Airport | Distance from HNL (miles) |
---|---|
Kahului Airport (OGG) | 100 |
Lihue Airport (LIH) | 102 |
Kona International Airport (KOA) | 164 |
Hickam AFB Airport | 2.64 |
Barbers Point Airport | 10.05 |
Wheeler AFB Airport | 12.89 |
Bellows Field Airport | 13.19 |
Dillingham Airfield Airport | 25.04 |
Molokai Airport | 54.73 |
Exploring airports like Kahului, Lihue, and Kona International near Honolulu can improve your travel experience. Each airport offers unique access to different Hawaiian islands. However, Honolulu International Airport is often the most convenient choice for many travelers345.
Travel Tips for Using Honolulu Airport
Traveling through Honolulu International Airport (HNL) can be smooth with the right knowledge. HNL has three terminals, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and services6. You can find fast food, local Hawaiian dishes, high-end stores, and lounges for everyone’s taste6.
Airport Amenities and Services
Using TSA PreCheck can cut down wait times during busy seasons. Most people can get through security in five minutes or less7. The airport also has cultural gardens and unique stores, making waiting for flights enjoyable8.
Remember, all luggage must go through agricultural inspections. Residents and guests need to fill out agricultural forms8.
Transportation Options from HNL
Getting to and from the airport is easy with many options. TheBus offers Route 20 to Waikiki, a cost-effective choice for many8. Uber and other ridesharing services are also available from specific spots8.
For those who prefer driving, Hertz and Avis have on-site rental car services8. The airport also has parking options for both long and short stays6.
Planning Your Trip to Honolulu
Planning a trip to Honolulu can seem tough at first. But, there are ways to make it easier. Use travel search engines to find the best deals and times. Booking early can also save you a lot of money.
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the busiest in Hawaii. It welcomes over 21 million passengers each year9.
Finding Flights to Honolulu
Many cities offer direct flights to HNL. Look for flights that fit your schedule. HNL has 21 airlines, like Hawaiian Airlines and Delta, offering many options9.
Traveling between islands is quick, taking about 30 minutes or less10.
Accommodation Options Near HNL
Choosing the right place to stay near HNL can make your trip better. You can find hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts. Many hotels are close to the airport for easy access.
Airport | Location | Approximate Flight Time from HNL | Major Airlines |
---|---|---|---|
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) | Honolulu | Varies | Hawaiian Airlines, Delta Airlines, Southwest Airlines |
Kahului Airport (OGG) | Maui | 30 mins | Hawaiian Airlines |
Lihue Airport (LIH) | Kauai | 30 mins | Alaska Airlines, United Airlines |
Kona International Airport (KOA) | Big Island | 30 mins | Hawaiian Airlines |
Hilo International Airport (ITO) | Big Island | 30 mins | Hawaiian Airlines |
Conclusion
The closest major airport to Honolulu is Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). It’s just 6 miles from Aloha Tower Marketplace and 10 miles from downtown Honolulu1112. This airport is the largest in Hawaii and offers flights to other islands, perfect for exploring12.
HNL has many amenities like dining, tax-free shopping, and services for families. These make your visit to Oahu better. Also, using travel tips for Honolulu airport, like arriving early and knowing your transport options, can make your trip smoother13.
When planning your trip, knowing what Honolulu International Airport offers is key. You can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use public transport like TheBus. HNL connects you to Oahu and the whole island chain, making it a vital travel gateway.
FAQ
What is the closest major airport to Honolulu?
The closest major airport to Honolulu is Honolulu International Airport, known as HNL. It’s about 6 miles from downtown Honolulu.
What notable airlines operate at Honolulu International Airport?
Airlines like American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Hawaiian Airlines fly from HNL. They serve both domestic and international routes.
Are there other airports near Honolulu?
Yes, there are other airports like Kahului Airport (OGG), Lihue Airport (LIH), and Kona International Airport (KOA). But they are much farther than HNL.
What amenities are available at Honolulu International Airport?
HNL offers many amenities. You can dine, shop duty-free, relax in lounges, and get baggage services. Plus, there’s free Wi-Fi to make your trip better.
What transportation options are available from HNL?
You can get around from HNL with rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and public buses. They make it easy to get to downtown Honolulu and other places.
How can I find flights to Honolulu International Airport?
Look for flights to HNL on travel comparison websites for the best deals. Booking early can help you save a lot.
What accommodation options are available near HNL?
Near HNL, you can find hotels and resorts for all budgets. They make it easy to get to the airport and explore the area.