LIHU‘E — A parking crunch is likely at the five busiest airports in Hawai‘i over the Thanksgiving holiday period, the state Department of Transportation said.
The department issued a travel alert on Tuesday because of an anticipated increase in passengers in the period.
“Based on reporting from the airlines, there are no major increases in the number of flights at Hawai‘i airports compared to last Thanksgiving; however, flights are expected to be fuller, meaning the airports will be busier, especially during peak times between 10 a.m and 2 p.m.,” the department said.
“The busiest travel day is expected to be Wednesday, Nov. 22, followed by Sunday, Nov. 26.”
The department also offered a number of tips for air travelers during the holiday period.
• Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to your scheduled flight departure for mainland or international flights, and 90 minutes early for interisland flights.
• Check with your airline on the status of your flight, including any delays, gate assignments and baggage claim area if you’re picking up arriving passengers.
• Parking lots at Hawai‘i airports fill up quickly, especially over the holidays, so it’s recommended that passengers plan accordingly.
“If using the airport’s public parking garages, travelers are advised to arrive early and allow for additional walking time to the ticket lobbies, as some lots are farther from the main terminal than others,” the department said. “The maximum parking rate for a 24-hour period at neighbor island airports is $15.”
The five busiest airports in the Hawaiian Island chain are Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Kahului Airport in Kahului, Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole in Kalaoa, Hilo International Airport in Hilo and Lihu‘e Airport in Lihu‘e.
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Wyatt Haupt Jr., editor, can be reached at 808-245-0457 or whaupt@thegardenisland.com.
