The Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation (HDOT) is updating on the closure of the runway at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA).
Air operations were suspended at approximately 4:20 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, to address cracks on the runway.
As of 8 p.m., HDOT staff and consultants report that the runway will remain closed through Monday night as it is not possible to operate around the damaged section of the runway.
Currently, HDOT is also working with contractors to mill and resurface a 10’ X 10’ area. The expected completion of the resurfacing, which will allow the runway to reopen, is prior to first light on Tuesday, Jan. 16.
Passengers with flights scheduled to arrive or depart from KOA Jan. 15 & 16 are advised to check with their airline before heading to the airport.
KOA shut down operations at 16.20 (4:20 pm) HST on Monday.
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole is the primary airport on the Island of Hawaii. It serves transpacific and interisland flights. KOA is located in West Hawaii at Keahole. The Big Island is known for its active volcanoes, orchids, golf courses, and scenic coastline. We look forward to welcoming you to Kona!
Kona is also an international airport for the state of Hawaii to connect the Kona side of the island with the US mainland, international destinations, and interisland to Honolulu and beyond.
KOA has an 11,000-foot runway and a complex of facilities at the eastern edge of the airfield for arriving and departing passengers, air cargo and mail, airport support, and general aviation operations.
The closest airport to Kona is Hilo on the other side of the island. Hilo is about 78 miles from Kona and it takes usually less than a 2-hour drive.
Most visitors stay in hotels in the Kona area. Most US airlines serving the State of Hawaii also serve Kona.
Several flights were already rerouted and are delayed indefinitely.
