Runway project underway at Lihu‘e Airport

LIHU‘E — Construction activity to increase safety began this week at Lihu‘e Airport.

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) began construction activity at the airport on Monday, June 10, for Runway 3 through 21 as part of the Relocated Runway Project to improve safety operations as required by the Federal Aviation Administrator (FAA).

The work is expected to run through Thursday, July 18, and requires the installation of new lighting or Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights to runways and taxiway edges, including LED lighting to airfield signage and conduits along with cabling.

Beginning on Monday, July 15, Runways 3 through 21 will also be closed nightly from 11 p.m. to 8 a.m., for the installation of a temporary jet blast deflector wall needed to allow construction to occur during the day so that flight operations can continue to operate. This work is expected to run until Thursday, July 18.

Runways 17 through 35 will remain open during the overnight work. Both runways will be in operation during the day.

Pedestrians and motorists, however, will be affected by the construction and can expect closures in the section of Ahukini Road to Ninini Point (Beach Road) closest to the start of the runway. The section not immediately neighboring Runway 3 through 21 can be accessed via Ninini Point Street.

That section will reopen to pedestrians on Saturday, June 15. However, it will remain closed to vehicles until Jan. 26, 2026.

HDOT noted that all work is weather permitting, and travelers are advised to check with their airline regarding specific information specific to their fights. HDOT has coordinated with airlines and other partners to minimize impacts to visitors.