I just returned to Kona after an exhilarating week in Tokyo, and as always, landing back home felt like something out of a dream. There’s nothing quite like stepping off the plane at Kona International Airport—Hawai‘i’s only open-air airport, and quite possibly the only open-air international airport in the entire U.S. The warm breeze, the scent of plumeria, and the laid-back rhythm of island life greet you the moment you arrive. It’s a welcome unlike any other—and a reminder of why the Big Island is so unforgettable.
For those of us who live in Hawaii, we know that air travel is a necessity. My daughter, who moved to D.C., jokes that people ask if we primarily travel by boat or even an underwater highway. Whether we’re island-hopping or heading to the mainland or Japan, we’re constantly moving, passing through Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA). I truly believe that KOA is unlike any other airport in the U.S.
Whenever friends and clients visit Kona for the first time, they’re amazed at how different KOA feels. No massive terminals, no endless passageways—just open-air courtyards, fresh ocean breezes, and an immediate sense of arrival in paradise. This isn’t just a domestic airport; I often fly internationally from here, including direct to Japan. Note– the direct flight to Tokyo has been suspended due to runway construction.
A Blend of Tradition & Modernization
Kona International Airport is the only open-air international airport in Hawaii—a design made possible by Kona’s exceptional weather. FYI, the photos on this blogs were taken 10 days ago when I left Kona. Not from 1990s. With minimal rainfall and consistent sunshine, there’s no need for air conditioning or heat. Instead, KOA’s hut-like architecture, tropical landscaping, and lava rock surroundings create a uniquely Hawaiian experience. If you’re arriving at day, you’ll find clear blue skies, and if you’re arriving at night, you’ll look up to glistening stars.
✈️ New Enclosed Gate & Immigration Facility: To accommodate international arrivals, KOA recently added an enclosed Gate 11 and a fully enclosed U.S. Customs & Border Protection facility to meet federal requirements. This allows the airport to process direct international flights while maintaining its distinctive design. Now, those who need AC can now head to gate 11!
A True Island Welcome & Farewell
Airports are often the first and last impression of a destination, and Kona International Airport captures the essence of the Big Island perfectly. Whether you’re arriving for a Hawaiian escape or boarding an international flight, KOA offers a travel experience that’s both seamless and uniquely Hawaiian.
We are incredibly blessed to live in a place where nature allows us to keep this rare, open-air airport experience. KOA is a reflection of Kona’s exceptional climate, natural beauty, and the laid-back luxury that makes this place so special.