Travelers planning to fly to or from Hilo International Airport (ITO) might encounter some schedule changes as the airport embarks on a major lighting overhaul. According to the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT), starting next Monday, runway 8-26 will be closed from 9 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. every night for a significant update to the airport's lighting infrastructure.
The HDOT has embarked on Phase 4 of the Taxiway and Runway Lighting Replacement Project at ITO which will see every fixture of runway and taxiway lighting being replaced. These upgrades include improved airfield signs and an enhanced electrical draining system. During the night hours when the main runway is closed, the alternate runway, 3-21, will serve airborne traffic, ensuring that operations continue with as few interruptions as a possible.
The timing for the renovations is intentional, chosen to lessen the impact on day-to-day operations and traveler itineraries. Aircraft operations will transition to the alternate runway to accommodate the necessary safety upgrades. The project spans a minimum of 128 calendar days.
While overnight work is planned to keep disruptions at bay, travelers are advised to check with their respective airlines for any possible changes to flight schedules.
.jpg){kind=link}