Kauai's Lihue Airport: A Gateway To The Island's Beauty

is lihue considered kauai island airport

Lihue Airport (LIH) is the primary airport on the Island of Kauai, Hawaii. The airport is located about 1.5 miles east of the town of Lihue, along Kauai's southeast coast. It covers an area of 915 acres at an elevation of 153 feet above mean sea level. The airport has two asphalt-paved runways and one helipad. Lihue is the government and commercial centre of Kauai and is a cultural and historical area. The island itself is known for its lush green valleys, rugged cliffs, and waterfalls.

Characteristics Values
Name Lihue Airport
Location 1.5 miles east of the town of Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii
Area Covered 915 acres (370 hectares)
Elevation 153 feet (47 m) above mean sea level
Number of Runways 2 (asphalt-paved)
Runway Dimensions 6,500 x 150 feet (1,981 x 46 m)
Helipad Dimensions 64 x 64 feet (20 x 20 m)
Annual Aircraft Operations 109,650 (as of August 5, 2022)
Average Daily Aircraft Operations 300
Aircraft Operations Breakdown 61% air taxi, 28% scheduled commercial, 10% general aviation, 1% military
Number of Based Aircraft 46
Breakdown of Based Aircraft 19 single-engine, 5 multi-engine, 22 helicopter
Accessibility Accessible to those with disabilities, including accessible parking and TTYs for the deaf and hard of hearing
Airlines Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, WestJet, American Airlines, United Airlines
Gates Gate areas are air-conditioned. Certain gates are typically used by specific airlines.
Public Transportation Kauai Bus route 100/200 connects the airport to downtown Lihue

shunhotel

Lihue Airport is Kauai's main airport

Lihue Airport (LIH) is Kauai's main airport, located about 1.5 miles east of the town of Lihue, along Kauai's southeast coast. The airport covers an area of 915 acres (370 hectares) at an elevation of 153 feet (47 m) above mean sea level. It has two asphalt-paved runways, each measuring 6,500 by 150 feet (1,981 by 46 m), and one helipad measuring 64 by 64 feet (20 by 20 m). The airport is accessible to those with disabilities, offering accessible parking in the main lot and loading and unloading zones curbside. Additionally, there are two TTYs for the deaf and hard of hearing, and guide/service dogs are always welcome throughout the facility.

Lihue Airport is served by several major airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. These airlines offer flights to Kauai from various destinations across the United States, such as Seattle, Portland, San Jose, San Diego, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Chicago. The airport also features a Premier Lounge operated by Hawaiian Airlines, which is open to first-class travellers.

The airport receives high marks from visitors for its ease of navigation, cleanliness, friendly staff, and laid-back yet professional atmosphere. The partially open-air design of the airport adds to its pleasant experience. Taxi services and car rental options are conveniently available at the airport, making it easy for passengers to continue their journey upon arrival.

Lihue, the town in which the airport is located, is the government and commercial centre of Kauai. It is also a cultural and historical area with various natural wonders to explore, such as Kalapaki Beach and Ninini Beach, making it a popular destination for travellers.

shunhotel

Airlines serving Lihue Airport

Yes, Lihue Airport is considered the main airport of Kauai Island. It is located in Līhuʻe, the government and commercial centre of the island, as well as a cultural and historical area.

Lihue Airport is served by seven airlines, which collectively fly non-stop to fifteen destinations on a regular schedule. The following airlines operate from the airport:

  • United Airlines: This airline mostly uses Gates 9 and 10, flying Boeing 737-800 and Boeing 737-900ER aircraft, occasionally using the Boeing 757-200.
  • Delta Air Lines: This airline primarily utilises Gates 7 and 8 with the Airbus A321neo.
  • Alaska Airlines: They operate from Gates 7 and 8 with Boeing 737 aircraft and occasionally use Gate 9.
  • Southwest Airlines: Gates 7 and 8 are mostly used by Southwest Airlines.
  • WestJet: This airline also uses Gates 7 and 8.
  • American Airlines: American Airlines predominantly uses Gate 3 and occasionally Gate 4, operating the Airbus A321 for travel to and from Lihue.
  • Hawaiian Airlines: This airline uses both Boeing 717 and Airbus A321 aircraft for Gates 3-4 and 5-6 for their inter-island and US mainland flights. They also operate a Premier Lounge at the airport, exclusively for first-class travellers.

shunhotel

Accessibility at Lihue Airport

Lihue Airport (LIH) is located about 1.5 miles east of the town of Lihue, along Kauai's southeast coast. It is the primary airport on the Island of Kauai, also known as 'The Garden Island'. The airport covers an area of 915 acres (370 hectares) at an elevation of 153 feet (47 m) above mean sea level. It has two asphalt-paved runways and one helipad.

Lihue Airport is accessible for those with disabilities. Accessible parking is available in the main lot, and loading and unloading zones are located curbside. There are also two TTYs for the deaf and hard of hearing. Guide/service dogs are welcome throughout the airport. Passengers can request porter service from their airline for assistance with boarding and disembarking. While the airport's ground transportation is generally accessible, prior arrangements are recommended to ensure a vehicle is available.

The airport receives consistently high marks from visitors for its ease of navigation, cleanliness, friendly staff, and laid-back yet professional atmosphere. The partially open-air design of the airport adds to its appeal. On a typical day, certain airlines use specific gates for arriving and departing. For example, Gates 9 and 10 are mostly used by United Airlines, while Gates 7 and 8 are primarily for Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines. Hawaiian Airlines operates a Premier Lounge at the airport, which is open to first-class travellers.

shunhotel

Transport options from Lihue Airport

Yes, Lihue is considered the Kauai Island Airport. It is located in the town of Lihue, which is the government and commercial centre of the island. The airport's official code is LIH.

Shuttle

Shuttles are a popular transport option from Lihue Airport. SpeediShuttle offers both shared and private shuttle services to destinations across Kauai, including Lihue, Poipu, Princeville, Koloa, and Waimea. Shuttles are usually located to the right or left of the baggage carousel in the designated commercial vehicle pick-up area. Shuttles can be booked in advance online, by phone, or by email.

Taxi

Taxis are also available from Lihue Airport. The pick-up area for taxis is outside Baggage Claim A and Baggage Claim B.

Rental Car

If you want a more independent way to explore the island, you can rent a car at Lihue Airport. All major rental companies are available, and you can pick up your car across the street from the terminal. The pick-up and drop-off spots are behind the respective rental car booths.

Ride Share

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available at Lihue Airport. Their pick-up area is outside Baggage Claim A and Baggage Claim B.

Bus

The Kauai County bus, also known as The Kaua'i Bus, connects the airport to downtown Lihue. The bus route 100/200 can be used for transportation to and from the airport.

shunhotel

Lihue's natural wonders and historical spots

Yes, Lihue Airport is considered the gateway to Kauai Island. It is the primary airport serving the island of Kauai and is located in the town of Lihue. Now, let's explore some of the natural wonders and historical spots that Lihue has to offer.

Natural Wonders in Lihue

Lihue is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Kauai. One of the most famous spots is the Wailua Falls, a stunning double waterfall that plunges into a lush, tropical pool. The falls are easily accessible and offer a spectacular view of Kauai's natural beauty. Another natural wonder is the Lihue River, which flows through the heart of the town. The river is a popular spot for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Just outside Lihue is the breathtaking Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. This rugged coastline features dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and pristine forests. Visitors can hike the famous Kalalau Trail, which traverses the coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including rare birds and marine life.

Historical Spots in Lihue

Lihue also boasts a rich history and cultural heritage. One of the most notable historical spots is the Kauai Museum, which showcases the island's history and culture through art, artefacts, and exhibits. The museum highlights the unique traditions and craftsmanship of Kauai's early inhabitants, including their mastery of tiki carving and tapa cloth making.

Old Town Lihue is another charming historical district. Here, visitors can explore the quaint shops and restaurants while admiring the vintage architecture. The Old Town also hosts cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating Kauai's diverse heritage and traditions.

Lastly, the Kilohana Plantation is a must-visit historical site. This former sugar plantation has been transformed into a thriving agricultural park, offering a glimpse into Kauai's agricultural past. Visitors can take a train ride through the plantation, explore the lush gardens, and sample local produce and products. The plantation also houses the Kauai Museum's satellite gallery, featuring exhibits that delve into the island's sugar industry and its impact on Lihue's development.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, Lihue Airport (LIH) is the primary airport on the Island of Kauai.

Lihue Airport is accessible to people with disabilities. Accessible parking is available in the main lot, and there are designated loading and unloading zones located curbside. The airport also has two TTYs for the deaf and hard of hearing. Guide/service dogs are allowed throughout the airport.

There are several transportation options available from the Lihue Airport. Taxis are located curbside before the terminal, and taxi phones are available to dispatch one if needed. Car rental booths are located across the street from the terminal. Pre-arranged ground transportation, such as tours and hotel shuttles, is also available. Additionally, the Kauai Bus provides public transportation, with a bus stop located in front of the terminal.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment