Big changes are arriving for safer, smoother airport transits in Hawaii. Travelers heading to Hawaii can expect an added layer of safety as major upgrades are soon coming to fire safety systems at Honolulu Airport (HNL) and other key airports across the islands.
Thanks to $17 million in FAA funding, Hawaii’s main airport is moving forward with high-tech fire alarms and sprinkler suppression systems that offer travelers security and peace of mind.
What’s New at HNL?
HNL, Hawaii’s largest and busiest airport in Honolulu, is implementing these new systems to improve fire detection and response times.
High-tech fire alarm system: A $7.3 million upgrade will overhaul the fire alarm control panels in Terminal 2, giving responders faster access to real-time information if an issue arises.
Advanced sprinkler system: For an additional $9.7 million, the airport will replace its older sprinkler system with modern mains that connect directly with the new alarms. This will ensure that fire suppression kicks in more rapidly and with greater reliability.
Why this matters for travelers.
These airport updates may not be front-of-mind for travelers wanting tangible services, but they’ll make a real difference. Beyond Honolulu, Maui Airport, Hilo Airport, and Kona Airport will also receive similar upgrades. By spring 2025, these airports will have integrated, high-efficiency fire safety systems. Here’s what that means for visitors:
Streamlined response for minimal disruptions: If a small fire or emergency occurs, these systems help reduce response time, meaning fewer disruptions and faster re-openings of impacted areas.
Better preparedness during high season: Hawaii’s airports see peak travel times throughout the year. These improvements ensure facilities are prepared to keep everyone safe and operations smooth, even during the busiest days.
Airport safety trends and Hawaii’s commitment to safety.
Many other major airports are upgrading fire safety to handle higher passenger volumes and meet modern standards. With these improvements, Hawaii is aligning with top-tier airport safety standards that are fast becoming a global expectation, providing visitors with the latest fire safety.
Ultimately, these upgrades mean Hawaii’s airports are better prepared for any emergency. Whether it’s your first time here in the islands or you are a resident traveling, your focus can be on travel adventures that await.
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This is a case of trying to make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. There are a lot of better places where that money could and should have been spent that would directly impact travelers on a daily basis.
BOH Editors, why isn’t the state upgrading the Lihue airport as well?
Meanwhile, the Maui airport looks like something from a third world country with awful bathrooms and other broken stuff.
Makes a great first and last impression for visitors.
If you want to see history and culture of Hawaii just look at the airport. I tell you the state hasn’t upgraded the bathrooms, cracked walls,old baggage claim area and I think they still have all the old signs directing you where to go when departing. Safety really. I am more afraid of the building falling down on me than any stupid fire detection systems. I noticed this place with wood paneling hasn’t changed since 1968. That was 55 years ago. Wow jump and hollar. High tech has finally made it to the HNL airport. Maybe the new sprinkler systems can be in line with the islands lack of water.
You are so right Don.
When we flew from Kona last month we were outside for two hours in 90 degree heat and humidity with no AC. The bathrooms and the stench from the trash bins were disgusting .
No common sense on priorities, sad state.