Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA)
Kona International Airport at Keahole is the Big Island’s primary airport located in Keahole in West Hawaii. The airport serves a number of airlines that fly to and from international destinations. Local airlines also operate interisland flights on a regular basis. Over 2.5 million passengers pass through the airport every year.
Getting to the airport
Kona International Airport at Keahole is located seven miles northwest of Kailua-Kona. Access to the airport is from either north or south along Queen Kaahumanu Highway. Most resorts are located on the Kohala Coast around 25 miles from the airport. Passengers who need to return a rental car should turn right on Keahole Airport Road to reach the rental car subdivision which is close to the Onizuka Memorial.
Parking options
The parking zones at Kona International Airport at Keahole are accessible from Kupipi Street. The airport has well organized parking lots which can be accessed via crosswalks from Terminals 1 and 2. Automated ticket dispensers are located at the entrance of each zone while parking fees is payable by cash or credit card on exit. The hourly parking rate is around $1 with a maximum of $7 for 24 hour parking. Apart from on-site parking, Kona International Airport at Keahole offers off-airport parking options at discounted rates. Some local hotels offer free parking for up to a fortnight for guests that book in for a night.
Getting around the terminals
The Kona International Airport at Keahole main passenger terminal is located on Kupipi Street. The terminal is divided into Terminals 1 and 2 with the Onizuka Memorial in the center. The ticketing and check-in lobby is in Terminal 1. This section also includes the baggage claim area. There are shops, newsstands, a restaurant, hotel desk, and information desk. The terminal leads to Gates 1 to 5.
Terminal 2 also has ticketing and check-in facilities. A gift shop and restaurant are also located in the terminal which also includes the Hawaiian Airlines Lounge. The terminal leads to Gates 1 to 10. Passengers arriving on international flights are catered to in separate section next to Terminal 1, in front of the cell phone and Group Tour Parking lots. Customs inspection and immigration checks are also conducted in this terminal. There are crosswalks that lead to the public parking zones from both terminals.
Transport facilities
To cope with the demand for ground transportation Kona International Airport at Keahole offers many options. Taxi and car rental services are available at the terminal. Alternatively, you can hop on a Hele-On Bus, the public transport service that plies between the airport and the town of Kailua-Kona. Prior to reaching or departing from Kona International Airport at Keahole, it would be prudent to organize your transportation or contact the information desk for assistance.