What is the airport code for Honolulu International Airport?

Air Travel

By Felicity Long

Airports are essential gateways that connect people from different parts of the world. To ensure seamless communication among travelers, airport codes are used as a shorthand to identify specific airports. This article explores what the airport code for Honolulu International Airport is, why airport codes are important, and how they are assigned.

Understanding Airport Codes

Airport codes are three-letter codes used to identify airports. They are assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). These codes help to identify airports, airlines, and specific routes. By using airport codes, travelers can easily identify their destination and route.

The Airport Code for Honolulu

The airport code for Honolulu International Airport is HNL. This code is used by airlines, travel agencies, and booking websites to identify the airport. HNL is a major hub for travel to and from Hawaii, serving millions of passengers annually. The airport is located in Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, and it is one of the busiest airports in the United States.

Why Airport Codes are Important

Airport codes are important because they help to identify airports, airlines, and routes. They are used by airlines, travel agencies, and websites to book flights, provide information, and track flights. Without airport codes, it would be difficult to identify airports and routes, and communication among travelers would be less efficient.

How Airport Codes are Assigned

Airport codes are assigned by the IATA and ICAO. The IATA assigns codes to identify airports and airlines, while the ICAO assigns codes to identify airports and air traffic control centers. To assign airport codes, the IATA and ICAO use a standardized system that includes factors like location, name, and other identifying features.

The History of Honolulu International Airport

Honolulu International Airport opened in 1927 as John Rodgers Airport, named after a naval officer who made the first trans-Pacific flight in 1925. The airport was later renamed Honolulu International Airport and has grown to become a major hub for travel to and from Hawaii.

The Significance of HNL

HNL is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers annually. It is a major hub for travel to and from Hawaii, connecting travelers to other parts of the world. The airport has a rich history and is an important part of Hawaii’s identity and culture.

Other Airports in Hawaii

In addition to HNL, Hawaii has several other airports that serve different parts of the state. These include Kahului Airport (OGG) on Maui, Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island, and Lihue Airport (LIH) on Kauai. Each of these airports has its own unique code and serves a specific region of Hawaii.

Using HNL for Booking Flights

When booking a flight to or from Honolulu, travelers should use the airport code HNL to ensure that they are booking the correct airport. HNL is used by airlines, travel agencies, and booking websites to identify Honolulu International Airport.

Tips for Using Airport Codes

When using airport codes, it’s important to double-check that you are using the correct code for your destination. Some airport codes may be similar, and using the wrong code could result in booking a flight to the wrong airport. It’s also important to check the airport’s location and facilities before booking a flight.

Conclusion

Airport codes are essential for identifying airports, airlines, and routes. The airport code for Honolulu International Airport is HNL, and it is an important hub for travel to and from Hawaii. Understanding airport codes can help travelers to book flights more efficiently and ensure that they arrive at the correct airport.

Resources for More Information

  • IATA airport codes: https://www.iata.org/en/publications/directories/code-search/
  • ICAO airport codes:
  • Honolulu International Airport website: https://airports.hawaii.gov/hnl/
Photo of author

Felicity Long

Felicity Long, a seasoned travel journalist with 15+ years of experience, specializes in exploring Europe, family travel, and skiing, as evident in her book "Great Escapes: New England" (The Countryman Press). She edits the Europe eNewsletter and contributes significantly to TravelAsker's destinations sections. Felicity has received esteemed awards, including the Cacique and Yo Leonardo Awards, in recognition of her outstanding international travel writing accomplishments.

Leave a Comment