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About HNL
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is the principal airport of Hawaii, located on the island of Oahu in Honolulu. It is the main hub for Hawaiian Airlines and a major gateway for travel between the US mainland, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. The open-air terminal design reflects Hawaii's tropical climate, with many gate areas featuring outdoor breezeways. The airport handles over 20 million passengers annually and serves as a critical refueling stop for transpacific flights.
Why "HNL"?
HNL derives from "HoNoluLu," the capital city of Hawaii. The airport was renamed in 2017 to honor Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Hawaii's longest-serving senator and a Medal of Honor recipient.
Hub For
Airlines Operating
Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Korean Air, Philippine Airlines, China Airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand
Terminals
Terminal 1
Domestic terminal primarily serving Hawaiian Airlines inter-island flights and some mainland carriers. Features the iconic open-air design with garden courtyards between concourses. Recently renovated with improved concessions.
Terminal 2
Serves international flights and most mainland US carriers. Houses the international arrivals facility with customs and immigration. Connected to Terminal 1 via the Wiki Wiki Bus shuttle. Features expanded duty-free shopping.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at HNL
Hawaiian Airlines
Terminal 1 Hub
United Airlines
Terminal 2
Air Canada
Air New Zealand
Air Premia
Alaska Airlines
Terminal 2
American Airlines
ANA
Showing 8 of 19 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
TheBus (public transit) Route 20 connects the airport to Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. Roberts Hawaii Express Shuttle runs to Waikiki hotels. SpeediShuttle offers shared and private vans. Taxi and rideshare services available at the median curbside.
Taxi
$35-45 to Waikiki
20-30 minutes to city center
Public Transport
$3.00 (TheBus)
40-60 minutes to Waikiki to city center
Parking at HNL
Multiple parking structures adjacent to terminals. Short-term from $3/hr, long-term from $18/day. International parking from $16/day....
Terminal Parking Garage
International Parking
Economy Parking Lot
Airport Lounges
Hawaiian Airlines Premier Club
Terminal 1
Comfortable lounge offering Hawaiian-inspired snacks, beverages, and views of the tarmac. Features local touches like POG juice and macadamia nuts.
United Club
Terminal 2
Standard United Club lounge with complimentary snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi. Offers views of Diamond Head on clear days.
IASS Hawaii Lounge
Terminal 2
Independent lounge popular with Priority Pass holders. Offers light snacks, soft drinks, and a quiet space away from the busy terminal.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
Honolulu Airport Hotel
Adjacent to the airport on N Nimitz Highway
Budget-friendly option just minutes from the terminal. Free airport shuttle and basic amenities. Ideal for overnight layovers or early morning departures.
Best Western The Plaza Hotel
Located on N Nimitz Highway, 5 minutes from the airport
Convenient hotel near the airport with free 24-hour shuttle service. Features an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Day rooms available for layover travelers.
Food & Dining
Island Brew Coffeehouse
Coffee & Light Fare
Terminal 1 (Landside)
Local Hawaiian coffee shop serving 100% Kona coffee, acai bowls, and fresh pastries. A great spot to grab breakfast before an early flight.
4:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Stinger Ray's Tropical Bar & Grill
Hawaiian-American
Terminal 1 (Airside)
Popular open-air restaurant serving Hawaiian plate lunches, poke bowls, and tropical cocktails. The loco moco and kalua pork are favorites among travelers.
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Yoshinoya
Japanese
Terminal 2 (Airside)
Japanese beef bowl chain offering quick and affordable gyudon (beef bowls), teriyaki chicken, and udon. Perfect for a fast pre-flight meal.
5:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Consolidated Rental Car Facility, 3055 N Nimitz Hwy
Located at the consolidated car rental facility. Free shuttle from baggage claim. Book early during peak season as cars sell out quickly in Hawaii.
National Car Rental
Consolidated Rental Car Facility, 3055 N Nimitz Hwy
Part of the same Enterprise Holdings group. Emerald Club members can skip the counter and choose their car directly.
Hertz
Consolidated Rental Car Facility, 3055 N Nimitz Hwy
Offers a wide selection of vehicles including Jeep Wranglers and convertibles, popular choices for exploring Oahu.
What to Do During a Layover
Inside the Airport
Hawaiian Cultural Garden
Explore the airport's cultural gardens featuring native Hawaiian plants, koi ponds, and traditional artwork. Located between Terminals 1 and 2, accessible airside.
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
Browse local crafts, souvenirs, and Hawaiian goods at this popular outdoor market near Aloha Stadium. Only on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. A short taxi ride from the airport.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, just 15 minutes from the airport. Free admission but reservations are required and fill up fast. An unforgettable historical experience.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●○○
- Power Outlets: Type A/B (US)
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Left Luggage: $15-25 per item per day
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: USD (US Dollar)
- Exchange: Travelex in Terminal 2 (International Arrivals area)
- Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tipping: Tipping is expected. 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters, 15-20% for taxis.
Better exchange rates available at banks in Waikiki or downtown Honolulu.
Smoking Areas
Designated outdoor smoking areas located outside terminal buildings before security.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +1 808-836-6547
Contact airport operations for lost items. Items found on aircraft should be reported to the airline.
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
ESTA required for Visa Waiver Program countries ($21). Others need a pre-approved visa. No visa on arrival.
Valid passport and ESTA or visa for international travelers. US domestic passengers need valid government-issued ID. Agricultural inspection required for all arriving passengers (no fresh fruits/plants from mainland).
When to Fly
Best time: September-November for fewer crowds and good weather. April-May also pleasant with lower hotel prices.
Peak seasons: December-March (whale season, holidays), June-August (summer), Japanese Golden Week (late April-early May)
Insider Tips
The airport has an open-air design — enjoy the tropical breeze between gates but be prepared for warm temperatures. Lei greeting services can be pre-arranged. Allow extra time during peak holiday seasons (Golden Week, summer, Christmas). The Wiki Wiki Bus provides free inter-terminal shuttle service.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Open-air breezeways between gates. Cultural gardens and Hawaiian art displays. USO lounge for military personnel. Nursing rooms and family restrooms. Pet relief areas.
Official Website
Phone
+1 808-836-6411
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