Airport Manual for Honolulu (HNL)

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport Undergoes Major Renovations and Improvements

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is currently undergoing significant changes, with the completion and testing of the Lelepaua Station for the Skyline rail transit system serving the airport. This rail link, part of the Skyline rail project, is expected to significantly improve transportation options for travelers and communities around the airport [3][4][5].

In addition to the rail improvements, there are ongoing transportation infrastructure updates around HNL. The westbound H-1 Freeway Airport Viaduct project is underway, keeping key on-ramps to the H-1 freeway from the airport open during construction, extending through December 2025 [1].

While specific details on cultural elements being added during this renovation phase are not currently available, it is common for Hawaii airports to incorporate native Hawaiian design elements and cultural motifs in renovation projects. Given the airport's name honoring Daniel K. Inouye, a prominent Hawaiian figure, such elements are likely part of the broader modernization efforts [2].

The airport offers a variety of amenities for travelers. The IASS Lounge, operated by Priority Pass, offers complimentary nonalcoholic drinks but no food, and does not allow outside food. Access to the IASS Lounge can be gained besides Priority Pass through membership programs like Diners Club International and DragonPass [6].

Another lounge operated by Priority Pass at HNL is The Plumeria Lounge. This lounge offers light fare like soup and packaged snacks, with the highlight being packaged snacks local to Hawaii, such as the cookie jar filled with Honolulu Cookie Company shortbread [7]. Access to The Plumeria Lounge can be gained by flashing Priority Pass, flying with Hawaiian Airlines in business class or as a Pualani Platinum member to an international destination, traveling in first class to certain North American cities, or purchasing a day pass [7].

The Hawaiian Airlines Premier Club, located in Terminal 1, 2nd floor near Gate A18, is open to passengers flying to North America or other islands in first class on Hawaiian Airlines, travelers with Pualani Platinum and Gold elite status, as well as Premier Club members [8]. However, it is being phased out by the airline throughout 2025.

The Delta Sky Club is located in Terminal 2, across from Gate F1, and can be accessed with a Delta Sky Club membership, a Delta One ticket, a premium cabin ticket on a partner airline, elite status, or a certain credit card [9].

In terms of shopping, HNL airport stores include a mix of national brands, designer names, and island-inspired boutiques [2]. The airport's most distinctive feature is its array of Chinese, Hawaiian, and Japanese gardens, with the C. B. Lansing Garden located on the ground level of Terminal 1 near the walkway to Terminal 2 [2]. To access the C. B. Lansing Garden, go down the staircases on the garden side after going through the airport security checkpoint.

Lastly, United Club is located in Terminal 2, third floor above Gates G2 and G3, and can be accessed by flying United Polaris or business class on international flights, United business class on transcontinental flights, or business class on a Star Alliance airline, or by purchasing a United Club day pass, an annual United Club membership, or using an eligible credit card [10].

For more precise or updated information on the cultural installations, contacting the Hawaii Department of Transportation or the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) may provide further insights beyond the publicly available updates as of August 2025 [2].

Some of the best travel credit cards of 2025 include the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Wells Fargo Autograph® Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The Platinum Card® from American Express, Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card [11].

To enhance their travel experience, travelers might consider using a credit card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, which offers rewards that can be used towards saving on flights and airport lounges.
As Daniel K. Inouye International Airport continues its renovations, travelers can look forward to improved lifestyle options, possibly including native Hawaiian design elements, and the introduction of the new Lelepaua Station, allowing for easy and efficient travel to and from the airport.