Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.
Kona Airport (KOA) – Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is Kona International Airport located?
Kona International Airport (KOA) is located about 11 km (7 miles) north of Kailua-Kona on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island.
2. What is the official name of KOA Airport?
The official name is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole, named after the astronaut Ellison Onizuka who was born in Hawaii.
3. Why is Kona Airport mostly open-air?
Because of Hawaii’s warm tropical climate, the airport was designed with open-air terminals and walkways instead of enclosed buildings.
4. How many terminals does KOA Airport have?
KOA operates mainly from a single passenger terminal complex divided into areas for domestic and interisland flights.
5. Which airlines fly to Kona Airport?
Major airlines include Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
6. Does KOA have international flights?
Yes. Kona Airport occasionally operates international flights, mainly to Canada and seasonal destinations.
7. How early should I arrive at Kona Airport?
Passengers are usually advised to arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures.
8. Is there public transportation from KOA?
Yes. The Hele-On public bus connects the airport with Kailua-Kona and other areas of the Big Island.
9. Are rental cars available at Kona Airport?
Yes. Major rental car companies operate at KOA and their counters are located near the arrival area.
10. How far is Kona Airport from downtown Kailua-Kona?
The airport is about a 15-minute drive from Kailua-Kona depending on traffic.
11. Does KOA Airport have lounges?
KOA has limited lounge facilities compared to larger airports, but passengers can find comfortable seating areas and airline services.
12. Is there free Wi-Fi at Kona Airport?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout most passenger areas of Kona International Airport.
13. What restaurants are available at KOA?
Passengers can find cafés, snack bars and local Hawaiian food options in the terminal areas.
14. Is Kona Airport busy?
KOA handles several million passengers each year and is one of the main gateways to Hawaii’s Big Island.
15. Is there parking at KOA Airport?
Yes. Kona Airport offers short-term and long-term parking areas close to the terminal.
16. Are there hotels near Kona Airport?
Several resorts and hotels are located within a 15–20 minute drive from the airport along the Kona Coast.
17. Does KOA have customs and immigration?
Yes, the airport has facilities to process international arrivals when international flights operate.
18. Can you walk between gates at KOA?
Yes. The airport is relatively compact and passengers usually walk between gates through open-air walkways.
19. Is Kona Airport accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. KOA provides accessible facilities, assistance services and adapted restrooms for travelers with reduced mobility.
20. What are the most popular destinations from Kona Airport?
Common routes include Honolulu, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco and other major cities in the United States.