The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has announced changes to ground transportation at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) to coincide with the launch of the second segment of the city’s Skyline rail service on October 16. The new Lelepaua Station, located on the mauka side of Terminal 2, will connect travelers and airport workers to the rail system. The station links directly to both the Terminal 2 and International Parking Garages via a pedestrian walkway and provides ground-level access from Ala Onaona and Ala ʻAuana Streets. Signage and marked pathways will guide passengers between the station and airport terminals.
“The new Skyline service connecting the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport will provide travelers and airport workers a convenient and comfortable option to get to and from the airport, and will open commercial opportunities around the airport property,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “In conjunction with the start of rail service, we are modifying our ground transportation operations to improve the flow and efficiency of passenger movement.”
Starting October 16, city bus stops previously located along the airport’s second level roadway will be replaced by a temporary stop on the ground level across from the lei stands. A permanent ground-level bus stop in front of the Skyline station is under construction.
Rideshare pickup locations at HNL will also move from the second floor to the first floor as of October 16. At Terminal 1, rideshare pickups will be curbside near Baggage Claim 6. At Terminal 2, two pickup areas will be relocated to the ground-level median across from Baggage Claims 19/20 and 31.
For pre-arranged ground transportation services such as shuttles and courtesy cars, the Terminal 1 pickup and drop-off point will shift from the mauka end to the makai end of the terminal at ground level. The location across from the lei stands will temporarily close for the new bus stop, but three other locations for pre-arranged services—across from Baggage Claim 16, outside Baggage Claim 31, and at the Consolidated Rental Car Facility—will remain unchanged.
To support airport workers in using Skyline for their commute, about 5,000 HOLO Cards preloaded with a free 24-hour rail pass have been distributed by the city Department of Transportation Services (DTS) to state employees and airline and concessionaire staff at HNL. State employees working at the airport can also use a Pre-Tax Transit Benefit Pilot Program for purchasing monthly transit passes valid on TheBus and Skyline rail services. HDOT and DTS have been providing informational sessions for airport stakeholders regarding these changes.
Maps and additional information about Skyline service and transportation modifications are available on both the HNL website and airport app.
