Hawaiʻi airports are expected to be busier than usual for interisland travelers this week due to the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo, according to the Hawaiʻi Department of Transportation.
The weeklong cultural festival, which began on April 5 and runs through April 11, is expected to draw thousands of participants and enthusiasts to Hawaiʻi Island, which could lead to increased crowds at Hawaiʻi airports.
At Hilo International Airport, the Department of Transportation has been working with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in anticipation of the increased volume of travelers for the Merrie Monarch Festival. Preventive maintenance has been completed on screening equipment, and a technician is on standby in case of any technical issues.
On Sunday, additional staffing is planned for passenger screening, including state sheriff canine teams that will assist with baggage screening as travelers depart Hilo.
In addition to increased passenger volume, air travel may be affected by severe weather as another Kona Low is expected to bring heavy rain later this week. The Department of Transportation is preparing airports for storm conditions by securing loose equipment and ramps, clearing airfield drains and outlets to prevent flooding, and fueling and charging vehicles and generators.
Air travel could also be impacted by volcanic activity. The U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiʻi Volcano Observatory reports the current forecast window for the next episode of lava fountaining from Kīlauea Volcano is now through April 15.
The Department of Transportation advises travelers to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled flight departure to allow enough time to park, check in and get through security. Travelers should also check with their airline for flight status, including any delays, gate assignments and baggage claim areas.
Hawaiian Airlines, Big Island Candies and Waiākea will offer a complimentary shuttle for passengers to shop at the Merrie Monarch Hawaiian Arts & Crafts Fair. Shuttle buses will run continuously from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 9, and Friday, April 10, with stops at the Hilo Airport check-in area and baggage claim.
Travelers departing from Hilo or Kona are reminded to leave all ʻōhiʻa flowers, leaves and plant parts on Hawaiʻi Island to reduce the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, which has killed more than one million native ʻōhiʻa trees.
Inspectors from the Hawaiʻi Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity will be stationed at the Hilo and Kona airports on Sunday, April 12, and Monday, April 13, to collect any ʻōhiʻa material.
