Travelers at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu may experience delays in the coming weeks. The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) announced that the recent reopening of Runway 4R-22L will be soon followed by the closure of Runway 4L-22R for a scheduled period of 41 days, beginning from 8 p.m. on January 24 through to March 5.
The closure, which forms a part of the larger Runway and Taxiway Shoulders Rehabilitation Project set to conclude in October, facilitates necessary paving and drainage improvements keeping in stride with Federal Aviation Administration standards. Running through this checker of runways, the available airstrips for take-offs and landings will include Runways 8L-26R, 8R-26L, and the newly resumed 4R-22L. As noted by HDOT, all project timelines may be subject to changes due to weather conditions.
HDOT has addressed concerns regarding potential operational disruptions, anticipating "minimal" impact on airfield activities. However, in a statement, it was conveyed that "travelers may experience delays on interisland flights departing HNL during peak hours from mid-morning to early afternoon," as the airport manages reduced capacity and prioritizes transpacific flights.
Communities near the airport perimeter may notice an increase in noise due to temporary changes in flight paths, which are part of the ongoing operational adjustments. HDOT has acknowledged the potential impact on nearby residents and expressed appreciation for their patience as these infrastructure improvements are made to enhance air travel safety at HNL.
