Founder of HawaiiGuide & certified travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Hawaii Airports
Maui-OGG
Nestled on the breathtaking island of Maui, a destination replete with dazzling beaches, thrilling aquatic activities, and the majestic Haleakala Crater is where you'll find Kahului Airport (OGG) – your welcoming gateway to this slice of paradise.
A mere 2.5 miles from the heart of Kahului town lies OGG, an airport that has earned accolades for its unique semi-outdoor structure, which allows travelers to bask in Maui's natural beauty right upon arrival. Its straightforward layout and exceptional service—from shop clerks to security personnel—have even led some visitors to crown it 'the world's friendliest airport.' Let's explore what makes Kahului Airport stand out by examining its history before we touch on today's experience.
The journey began in 1927 when funding was allocated for developing an airstrip for Hawaii's infrastructure. A sugar plantation section in Maalaea was repurposed but offered only a rudimentary dirt landing strip that proved challenging during rainy weather. By 1935, larger aircraft like the Sikorsky S-43s joined the fleet set to land here but quickly outgrew what Maalaea could handle.
In response, by 1936, new plans were underway, leading up to Puunene Airport being established two years after Maalaea was deemed unsuitable for expansion. Throughout WWII, Puunene underwent significant expansions tailored towards military needs yet still fell short due primarily to wartime demands necessitating another site near Kahului.
Breaking ground in 1942 amidst war efforts resulted in the creation of the Naval Air Station at Kahului; post-war shifts saw commercial aviation operations gradually assume prominence under territorial management starting from 1946 onwards—Puunene would see no further enhancements given NAS at Kahului had eclipsed it commercially.
Handover back from Navy control occurred just one year later; vigorous negotiations ensued until all commercial flights officially moved base from Puunene over to Kahului come 1951, followed swiftly by modernization endeavors—and so began OGG's tenure as Maui's principal air hub since June of '52 onward featuring consistent updates ever since enhancing every traveler's passage through this Hawaiian haven.
Kahului in central Maui
Navigating Kahului Airport (OGG): A Guide to Facilities and Transportation
Kahului Airport, sprawling across 1,391 acres near the breathtaking isthmus between Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains, is a bustling hub that caters to various air travel needs. It welcomes around 7,000 travelers daily with services, including commuter flights, air taxis for picturesque aerial tours, and general aviation activities. It even has its helicopter section.
When flying into or out of OGG, you'll find several significant airlines at your service, such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Virgin America, alongside local carriers like Hawaiian Airlines. International visitors can rely on airlines like Air Canada, while regional travels are well covered by United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines.
Passenger comfort is paramount at Kahului Airport, which boasts various amenities to enhance your travel experience. Whether picking up a last-minute gift from souvenir shops or grabbing a quick bite from food outlets—including bar & grill establishments—options abound. Indulge in authentic island leis or enjoy your favorite brew at coffee spots dotted throughout; stay connected via ATMs conveniently across terminals, and keep refreshed thanks to handy snack wagons.
Should you need assistance during your transit through OGG, friendly Visitor Information Staff stand ready to help answer any queries you might have about airport facilities or local attractions.
Transportation options upon arrival are diverse, ensuring seamless transitions whether heading into town or catching connecting flights:
- Taxis: Easily available right outside baggage claim.
- Car Rentals: Choose from eight reputable car rental agencies just beyond baggage area exits, with shuttles stopping behind their facility for ease.
- Shuttle Services: Offering one-way trips and round-trips linking hotels—a counter sits within baggage claims, aiding bookings.
For those opting for public transport, be mindful that although there are bus stops directly in front of terminals, service frequency could vary; meanwhile, drivers will appreciate ample parking spaces opposite the passenger terminal, inclusive of complimentary cell phone lot usage along Hemaloa Street for short waits up till one-hour free-of-cost!
Green travelers note that dedicated electric vehicle slots await within main parking lots complemented by charging stations, all accessible and free when displaying designated EV plates!
Maui Rental Cars
Accessibility and Honoring Heritage at Kahului Airport (OGG)
Travelers with disabilities will find Maui Kahului Airport well-equipped to ensure a comfortable journey. On request, Porter Service is available for those who need extra assistance. For ease of movement, elevators are installed to access the second floor. The airport also features designated parking spaces and specific zones for loading and unloading, which are directly catered to travelers with disabilities.
Communication facilities include TTs—text telephones or teletypewriters—for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, affirming OGG's commitment to accessibility for all passengers. Additionally, service animals are permitted and warmly welcomed throughout the terminal.
While most ground transportation services from the airport readily accommodate special needs, it is advisable to contact providers in advance to confirm that appropriate arrangements can be made smoothly upon your arrival.
The curious tale behind the unique 'OGG' code attached to Kahului Airport harks back to aviation trailblazer Bertram J. Hogg—a figure deeply interwoven into Hawaii's flight history fabric. Starting modestly as an airline mechanic helper in 1930 within what would evolve into Hawaiian Airlines, Hogg quickly ascended through the ranks, culminating in his piloting pioneering inter-island mail flights by 1934 while shaping future aviators alongside him.
Hogg charted his course deftly from essential aircrafts right up until commanding DC-9 jets later assuming helm over Flight Operations at Hawaiian Airlines; noteworthy too was his daring post-Pearl Harbor feat ferrying key military personnel island-to-island amidst navigation aid blackout during wartime strife – testament indeed of his valorous character which Maui fittingly honored via assigning 'OGG' designation come year 1946 celebrating such local heroics next time you're there make sure swing by Gate 19 where tribute exhibit dedicated Mr.Hoggs remarkable tenure stands proudly on display adding layers understanding enrich any traveler passing through terminals halls this historic enclave continually builds its stature array projects since underway aimed upgrading enhancing overall passenger experience join us witness these exciting developments along myriad other joys Valley Isle has extend ensuring start end your visit here memorable one filled friendly smiles heartening hospitality await exploration beyond awaits!
Kahului Airport Map
