The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) has announced the launch of Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), beginning August 19, 2025. The new system aims to improve the passenger arrival process and airport efficiency.
Developed in partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), EPP will initially be available for U.S. citizens arriving on selected flights. The technology uses auto capture to photograph travelers as they approach a CBP officer, enabling biometric confirmation and eligibility checks. This process is intended to streamline operations by allowing officers to focus more on passengers rather than administrative tasks.
Passengers who do not wish to participate in EPP can opt out and use the standard manual entry process by notifying a CBP officer.
With this rollout, HNL becomes the fifteenth airport in a network that includes major airports such as Orlando International Airport, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Denver International Airport, and others across North America and Europe.
Earlier this year, Governor Josh Green and Japan’s Consul General Yoshinori Kodama signed an action plan aimed at increasing Japanese tourism to Hawai‘i. The agreement included expanding VIP entry programs for school groups and promoting technologies like Mobile Passport Control and Global Entry. Since then, HDOT has introduced several biometric initiatives designed to make travel into Hawai‘i smoother for all visitors.
“Hawai‘i is well-known for its unmatched welcoming of travelers to our islands and we take pride in that,” said Governor Green. “Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) has reduced wait times for U.S. citizens by an average 25% and reduced processing time by 74%. EPP, together with other initiatives, will deliver a best-in-class, seamless experience for travelers, including residents and visitors.”
“Daniel K. Inouye International Airport continues to be a vital gateway for travelers from across the globe and we are thrilled to enhance the airport experience for all passengers,” said Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen. “This new system supports our continuing efforts to modernize our airports statewide and ensure that they are efficient, enjoyable and prepared for the travel demands of the future.”
