KOA Airport Insights & Guide
Key KOA Airport Topics:
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know KOA Airport
Discover Kona Airport, Hawaii's Big Island's unique open-air gateway, nestled close to top resorts and attractions. This guide simplifies your journey, offering flight updates, parking, and terminal info, plus dining and shopping tips. Experience the ease of island travel with our help. For a deeper dive into airports globally, explore our Comprehensive Airport Guide.
iFly Tip: Plan your trip with ease using our flying with kids guide.
Navigating KOA's Terminals
KOA Airport, or KOA, has one terminal with two levels. The terminal is divided into two wings, the North Wing and the South Wing. The North Wing has gates 1-5 and is used by Hawaiian Airlines, while the South Wing has gates 6-10 and is used by other airlines such as United, Delta, and American Airlines.
Passengers can easily navigate the terminal as it is compact and well-organized. The ground level of the terminal is where passengers can find baggage claim, rental car counters, and ground transportation services. The upper level is where passengers can check-in for their flight, go through security, and access the gates.
There are a variety of food and beverage options available at KOA, including fast food restaurants, cafes, and bars. Passengers can also find a variety of retail shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and travel essentials.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is divided into two levels, with arrivals on the ground level and departures on the upper level. The terminal is small and easy to navigate, so there is no need for transportation between terminals. However, if you need to transfer to another airport, there are shuttle buses available that can take you to nearby airports.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Kona International Airport (KOA) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from KOA-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"Kona International Airport is unique because it’s an open-air airport. There are no traditional terminals, so make sure to keep an eye on the signage for your gate. It’s easy to get turned around, but the staff is always helpful if you need directions." — Keoni M., Kailua-Kona, HI, August 2023
"Since KOA is all on one level, it’s very accessible. Just remember that the gates are spread out, so give yourself extra time to walk to your gate, especially if you have mobility issues." — Leilani P., Holualoa, HI, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is about 7 miles from Kailua-Kona. I recommend using a shuttle service if you have a lot of luggage. They are reliable and reasonably priced. Taxis are also available, but they can be a bit more expensive." — Daniel K., Kealakekua, HI, September 2023
"If you’re renting a car, make sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The rental car facilities are located just a short shuttle ride from the terminal." — Hina L., Captain Cook, HI, October 2023
Parking
"Parking at KOA is straightforward. There’s a main parking lot right in front of the terminal. If you’re picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting lot to avoid circling around." — Malia H., Waikoloa, HI, November 2023
"For long-term parking, it’s best to arrive early. The lot can fill up quickly, especially during holiday seasons. The rates are reasonable, but make sure to keep your ticket safe." — Kimo T., Waimea, HI, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"There are several food options inside KOA, but my favorite is the local coffee shop near the gates. They serve excellent Kona coffee and pastries. Perfect for a quick breakfast before your flight." — Lani W., Honaunau, HI, January 2024
"Don’t miss the shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. It’s a great way to pick up last-minute gifts that are unique to the Big Island." — Pono S., Kapaau, HI, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Security lines at KOA can get long, especially during peak hours. Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to avoid any stress. The TSA agents are friendly and efficient, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry." — Nani R., Hawi, HI, March 2024
"If you’re traveling with kids, there’s a small play area near the gates. It’s a lifesaver for keeping them entertained while you wait for your flight." — Kalani F., Honokaa, HI, April 2024
iFly Tip: Navigate customs and immigration quickly with advice from our wait times tips.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Kona Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at designated areas. Curbside parking is restricted to active loading and unloading only, so drivers should remain with their vehicles at all times. Vehicles left unattended may be towed at the owner's expense. It is important to note that parking in front of the terminal is not permitted, and violators may be subject to fines.
For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, the airport offers a cell-phone waiting area located just a short distance from the terminal. Drivers can park for free in this area and wait until their passenger has arrived and retrieved their luggage before proceeding to the curbside pickup area. This helps to alleviate congestion and ensure a smooth flow of traffic in front of the terminal.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at KOA, there are several options available for travelers. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options, with both covered and uncovered parking garages available.
If you're picking up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas located near the airport where you can wait for your party to arrive before heading to the terminal.
For those with disabilities, there are designated handicapped parking spots available in both the short-term and long-term parking areas.
If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, making it a convenient and affordable option for travelers.
Get details about KOA Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of transportation options to help you get to your destination. If you prefer to rent a car, major car rental providers such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National are available at the airport. You can easily find the car rental facilities located across from the terminal building.
If you prefer to take a taxi, you can find them outside of the baggage claim area. The drop-off area is located in front of the terminal building. Please note that fares are metered and may vary depending on the distance and time of day.
Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are also available at Koha Hawaii Airport. You can find the pickup area located outside of the baggage claim area. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage.
If you prefer to take an airport shuttle, you can find them located outside of the baggage claim area. The shuttle service offers door-to-door service to your destination. Fares may vary depending on the distance and time of day.
Public transportation options are also available at Kona at Keahole Airport. The Hele-On Bus provides service to various locations on the island of Hawaii. You can find the bus stop located outside of the terminal building. Please note that schedules and fares may vary depending on the route.
iFly Tip: Curious about how pilots manage flights? Explore our cockpit operation guide for a deep dive into flight procedures.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable place to stay near the airport? We've got you covered. Our guide provides a comprehensive list of the best hotel options located near the airport. Whether you're seeking luxurious comfort, a tranquil stay, or a place that offers easy access to local attractions, you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. From the breathtaking views of the Breezy Kailua-Kona Bungalow with Lanai and Ocean View, to the convenience and comfort of the Ohana Hale, there are numerous options to choose from. No matter what your preferences are, you're sure to find a hotel that fits your needs in this guide. Discover more about these fantastic options at Kona Keahole Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Koha Hawaii Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite, head over to Island Lava Java for some delicious coffee and breakfast sandwiches. For a more substantial meal, try out the Kona Pub & Brewery for some tasty pub fare and locally brewed beer. If you're in the mood for Asian cuisine, Umeke Market is the place to go for fresh poke bowls and sushi.
In terms of shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, head over to Hawaiian Island Creations or Island Magnets. For some last-minute travel essentials, ABC Stores has got you covered with a wide selection of snacks, drinks, and toiletries.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Kona at Keahole Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, click here.
Passenger Services
Kona Airport is dedicated to providing passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Here are some of the services available to passengers:
Wifi Access: Passengers can enjoy free wifi access throughout the airport, making it easy to stay connected while waiting for a flight.
Lost and Found: If you've lost an item at the airport, you can visit the Lost and Found office located in the terminal. The office is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays.
Children's Areas: The airport has a play area for children located near the food court. The area is equipped with toys and games to keep kids entertained while waiting for a flight.
Special-Needs Services: KOA is committed to providing accessible services to passengers with special needs. The airport has wheelchair-accessible restrooms, elevators, and ramps. Passengers who require special assistance can contact the airport's customer service department for assistance.
Banking: There are ATMs located throughout the airport for passengers who need to withdraw cash. Additionally, there is a bank located in the terminal for passengers who need to conduct banking transactions.
Medical Help: The airport has a medical clinic located in the terminal for passengers who require medical assistance. The clinic is staffed by licensed medical professionals and is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm on weekdays.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status information at KOA Airport.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time information on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply locate your flight on the display and check the status.
Another way to stay informed about your flight is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines have apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancellations, or gate changes, and even check-in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications through the app to receive updates about your flight status.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at the airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Kona at Keahole Airport (KOA) is located in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii, United States.
- Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. For a full list of airlines, visit the KOA Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Kona at Keahole Airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 100 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from KOA are Honolulu, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, and Tokyo.
- Hub Status: Kona at Keahole Airport is a hub for Hawaiian Airlines, which operates over 70% of the airport's daily flights.
Airport History
Kona Airport, located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1927: The first airport in Kailua-Kona was built on a dirt runway near the coast.
- 1942: The U.S. Army took over the airport and expanded it to support military operations during World War II.
- 1949: The airport was returned to civilian control and renamed Kona Airport.
- 1970: The airport was relocated to its current location and renamed Kona International Airport at Keahole.
- 1993: A new terminal building was opened to accommodate the growing number of passengers.
- 2003: The airport underwent a major renovation project to improve facilities and expand the runway.
- 2019: Kona International Airport at Keahole served over 3 million passengers, making it one of the busiest airports in Hawaii.
Today, Kona International Airport at Keahole continues to be an important gateway to the Big Island of Hawaii, welcoming visitors from around the world to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the island.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Kona International Airport at Keāhole, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: KOA
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 808-327-9520
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Kona International Airport at Keāhole, 73-200 Kupipi St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Kona at Keahole Airport Q&A
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