The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has introduced a new parking system at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). The initiative is intended to make it easier for drivers to access and leave airport parking lots.
The department collaborated with Metropolis, a company specializing in artificial intelligence-based parking technology, to implement ticketless parking at both airports. Travelers can register for the system by downloading the Metropolis app for iOS, visiting app.metropolis.io, or scanning QR codes available at KOA and ITO parking areas. Registration requires users to provide their mobile phone number, license plate number, and payment method. After registering, drivers are able to enter and exit the lots without taking a ticket; payments are processed automatically online using the registered payment method.
For those who choose not to sign up for the program, traditional ticketing remains available. These drivers will take a ticket upon entry and pay attendants with cash, credit card, or debit card when leaving.
Parking rates remain unchanged under this new system. Starting in March, travelers will also have the option to reserve parking spaces ahead of time.
“The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation is committed to delivering a smooth, stress-free travel experience at our airports,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “With this partnership, the two main airports on Hawai‘i Island are among the first airports in the U.S. to have Metropolis’ innovative technology, which will streamline the parking process at KOA and ITO.”
“Partnering with Kona and Hilo International Airports is especially meaningful to me, both professionally and personally,” said Courtney Fukuda, chief integration officer at Metropolis. “As someone born and raised in Hawai‘i, I’m proud to help bring our advanced technology to travelers who value speed, ease and simplicity. Together, we’re reshaping the start of the journey for both residents and visitors, reducing friction and maximizing convenience from the moment they arrive. Whether welcoming guests to our islands or helping locals move through their day, our goal is to make everyday transactions effortless with 40-plus Metropolis locations in Hawai‘i and growing.”
KOA and ITO join seven other airports across the United States that have installed Metropolis’ drive-in, drive-out technology since its introduction last year.
