Air Travel Your Gateway to: Molokai

Flight Information and Hubs

Airlines and Routes

Moloka'i Airport (MKK) is the main airport, situated near Kaunakakai, the island's central town.

Inter-island Connections

Mokulele Airlines: Frequent inter-island flights to MKK from Honolulu (HNL), Kahului (OGG), Kapalua (JHM).
Hawaiian Airlines: Flights between Honolulu (HNL) and Moloka'i (MKK) using larger turboprop aircraft.
These small plane flights present scenic, low-altitude journeys between the islands.

Direct Flights & Seasonal Changes

No direct international or mainland U.S. Flights land at Moloka'i Airport (MKK).

Travel Planning

All flights to Moloka'i are inter-island connections, mainly originating from Honolulu or Kahului.
Flight frequency can decrease slightly during the low season (e.g., in the fall).
Prices for inter-island flights change based on demand and time of year; booking flights in advance is a recommendation.

Moloka'i Airport MKK

MKK operates as a small, regional airport with a basic passenger terminal and restrooms.

On-Site Rentals

Rental car counters are located directly at the airport for convenience upon arrival.

Transit Options

Limited taxi services or pre-booked Moloka'i Public Transit are available for transfers.

Self-Driving and Rental Cars

Driving Essentials

To rent a car, a valid driver's license from your home country is needed. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed if your license is not in English.
Roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, especially on the East End.
Watch for pedestrians, cyclists, and especially animals, like deer, wild turkeys, and chickens, on the roads. These are a particular hazard at dawn and dusk.
Fuel stations are limited, mainly found in Kaunakakai. Plan your fuel stops carefully to avoid running out of gas in remote areas.

Rental Car Companies at MKK

Major brands like Alamo, Enterprise, National, and Dollar typically operate at MKK. Explore options via DiscoverCars.com.
A major credit card in the driver's name is needed for rental.
The minimum age for rental cars is typically 21; a young driver surcharge may apply for those aged 21-24.
Check your rental contract carefully for specific prohibitions, like driving on unpaved roads.

Land Travel Notes

Road Conditions

Unpaved roads exist, for example, towards Papohaku Beach on the West End or Mo'omomi Beach.

Speed Limits

Speed limits are lower than on the U.S. Mainland, typically ranging from 25-45 mph (40-70 km/h).

Local Pace

Moloka'i has no traffic lights. Locals often drive slower, adhering to a relaxed pace.

Sea and River Travel

Ferry Services None

Sea and river arrivals on Moloka'i are not a common method for tourist transportation.

Past Ferry Operations

The Moloka'i Ferry, connecting Maui and Moloka'i, ceased operations in October 2016.
There is currently no passenger ferry service connecting Moloka'i to other Hawaiian islands.
Moloka'i lacks a deep-water port for large cruise ships; small expedition cruise ships or private yachts may anchor offshore.

River Transportation Not Applicable

The island does not feature navigable rivers for transportation purposes.

Private Vessel Arrivals

If you arrive by private vessel from an international port, standard U.S. Customs and Border Protection procedures apply.
You must clear customs upon your first entry into U.S. Waters.
Ensure all required documentation is ready for inspection by officials.

Departure from Moloka'i

Departure Procedures

Moloka'i Airport (MKK) is a small airport; check-in and security processes are generally quick.

Recommended Arrival Times

Arrive 60-90 minutes before your scheduled inter-island flight.
This allows ample time, especially if you need to check luggage or return a rental car.
If you have connecting international flights, ensure ample layover time at your hub airport (Honolulu or Kahului) to clear security again and reach your international gate.

Airport Facilities for Departures

Moloka'i Airport offers restricted facilities for departing travelers.

Pre-Flight Comforts

You find restrooms and vending machines.
No major shops or restaurants are available post-security.
Plan to eat before arriving at the airport or bring snacks.

Important Departure Points

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing from Moloka'i or Hawaii for U.S. Citizens.
International travelers' flight tickets usually include any applicable U.S. Departure taxes within the fare.
Always confirm your flight status before heading to the airport.

Ensure all necessary travel documents are readily available.
Be mindful of baggage weight limits for inter-island flights.
Security procedures align with standard U.S. TSA guidelines.

Traveler's Smooth Exit

Allow ample time at your connecting airport in Hawaii for your onward journey, specifically for international flights.

Air Travel Your Gateway to Molokai