Aerial View of Honiara International Airport

Honiara International Airport HIR

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Honiara International Airport (HIR) Guide

Welcome to Honiara International Airport, your entry point to the enchanting Solomon Islands and the site of the famous WWII Guadalcanal campaign. As the primary airport for both international and domestic journeys, our concise guide aims to streamline your travel process.

Our Comprehensive Airport Guide equips you with essential information, from flight updates and terminal details to amenities like dining and shopping, ensuring a seamless transition from doorstep to departure. Dive into the heart of the Solomon Islands with ease at HIR Airport.

HIR Airport has one terminal building with two levels. The ground level is for arrivals and the upper level is for departures. The terminal has a total of 5 gates, with gate 1 being the international gate and gates 2-5 used for domestic flights.

Major airlines that operate at the airport include Solomon Airlines, Fiji Airways, and Virgin Australia. Solomon Airlines operates from gate 1 for international flights and gate 5 for domestic flights. Fiji Airways and Virgin Australia operate from gate 1 for their international flights.

Passengers can find various services and amenities at the airport including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, and currency exchange. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

Honiara International Airport has only one terminal building, so passengers do not need to worry about getting between terminals. All airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates are located in the same building. However, passengers should plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for enough time to check-in, go through security, and reach their gate.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At HIR Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas if they need to wait for their passengers.

The cell-phone waiting areas are located near the airport entrance and are free to use for up to 30 minutes. Drivers can park their vehicles and wait for their passengers to call them once they have collected their luggage and are ready to be picked up. This helps to reduce traffic congestion at the terminal building and ensures a smooth flow of traffic.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're driving to the airport, you'll find several parking options available to suit your needs. The airport offers both short-term and long-term parking in its on-site parking lot and garage. The parking lot is located just a short walk from the terminal, while the garage is connected to the terminal via a covered walkway.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, the airport also has a cell phone waiting area located just outside the terminal. This area allows you to wait in your car until your passenger is ready to be picked up, without having to circle the airport or pay for parking.

For those with disabilities, Honiara International Airport offers designated handicapped parking spaces in both the parking lot and garage. These spaces are located close to the terminal and are clearly marked for easy identification.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the terminal, and can be a great way to save money on parking fees.

Get details about Honiara Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

HIR offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers arriving in the Solomon Islands.

For those looking to rent a car, there are several car rental facilities located at the airport. Major providers include Avis, Budget, and Hertz. It is recommended to reserve a car in advance to ensure availability.

Taxi services are available outside of the airport terminal. Drop-off areas are located near the terminal entrance. Fares are fixed and should be agreed upon before the start of the trip. It is recommended to use licensed taxis to ensure safety.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are not available at HIR Airport.

Airport shuttles are available for transportation to and from the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination and should be confirmed with the shuttle provider.

Public transportation options include buses and minibuses. These options are located outside of the terminal and provide transportation to various destinations throughout the Solomon Islands. Fares are affordable and should be paid in cash.

Airport Hotels

Are you looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We have an extensive list of top-rated hotels that provide easy access to the airport, perfect for early bird travelers, late-night arrivals, or those who simply prefer the convenience. From budget-friendly apartments to luxurious resorts, these accommodations offer a range of amenities including free WiFi, private parking, and even car rental services. Some are located just a short walk away from the airport, while others offer breathtaking sea views. Ready to explore your options? Check out our comprehensive guide to Honiara Airport Hotels now!

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Honiara Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers to enjoy. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat before your flight, head to the airport's food court where you'll find a range of options from local cuisine to international fast food chains. For a sit-down meal, check out the Coral Sea Resort & Casino restaurant located just outside the airport. Their menu features a mix of western and local dishes, and the restaurant offers a great view of the ocean.

When it comes to shopping, the airport has a few stores worth checking out. The Solomon Islands Handicrafts store offers a selection of locally made crafts and souvenirs, while the Duty Free store has a range of products from liquor to electronics. If you're in need of some last-minute travel essentials, the airport's convenience store has you covered with snacks, drinks, and toiletries.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at HIR can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, see your options here.

Passenger Services

The airport is the main airport serving the Solomon Islands. It offers a range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and convenient travel experience for all visitors.

For those needing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport terminal. Lost and found services are also available for any items left behind during your travels.

Traveling with children? The airport offers a children's play area to keep little ones entertained before their flight. Special-needs services are also available, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.

For banking needs, there is a bank located in the airport terminal. Medical help is also available at the airport, with a medical center staffed by trained professionals.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it's always important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. At Honiara International Airport, there are several ways to get the latest information on your departure.

One way is to use the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display that corresponds to your flight and check the status.

Another way to stay informed is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes directly to your phone via text, email, or push notifications. This is a convenient way to stay informed and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

Finally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Honiara Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. The busiest times to avoid are during peak travel seasons, holidays, and weekends. Arriving early will give you enough time to check-in, go through security, and board your flight without any rush or stress.

Getting to the Airport

The best way to get to Honiara International Airport is by taxi or private car. Taxis are readily available in the city and can be hailed on the street or booked through a taxi company. Private cars can also be rented from various car rental companies located in the city. It is important to plan your transportation in advance and allow enough time for traffic and unexpected delays.

Getting Oriented

When you arrive at Honiara Airport, use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented. The maps provide detailed information about the airport's layout, including the location of terminals, gates, and amenities such as restaurants, shops, and lounges. You can also use the maps to find your way to baggage claim, ground transportation, and other important areas of the airport.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at HIR, make sure to arrive early, pack light, and have all necessary documents ready for check-in and security. Avoid carrying prohibited items in your carry-on or checked baggage, as this can cause delays and even lead to fines or confiscation of items. It is also important to keep an eye on flight updates and announcements, and to follow instructions from airport staff and security personnel.

Airport Facts & Stats

HIR, located in the Solomon Islands, is the main international gateway into the country. The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at HIR Airport are Solomon Airlines, Fiji Airways, and Virgin Australia. On average, the airport handles around 1,500 passengers daily and has around 20 daily flights.

The airport serves a number of destinations both domestically and internationally. On average, the airport serves around 10 destinations. The top 5 destinations served by the airport are Brisbane, Nadi, Port Vila, Sydney, and Tarawa.

Some of the air carriers that use Honiara International Airport as a hub include Solomon Airlines and Fiji Airways.

Airport History

Honiara Airport, located in the capital city of the Solomon Islands, has a rich history dating back to World War II. Originally built by the US military in 1942, the airport served as a crucial base for Allied forces during the Pacific Campaign. After the war, the airport was turned over to the British colonial government and eventually became a civilian airport.

Over the years, HIR has undergone several upgrades and renovations to accommodate the growing number of passengers and airlines. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1969 - The runway was extended to 2,500 meters to accommodate larger aircraft.
  • 1992 - The airport underwent a major renovation, including the construction of a new terminal building and control tower.
  • 2003 - The airport was temporarily closed due to civil unrest in the Solomon Islands.
  • 2017 - A new international departure lounge was opened, featuring modern amenities and a duty-free shopping area.
  • 2019 - The airport celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special ceremony and cultural performances.

Today, HIR Airport serves as the main gateway to the Solomon Islands, connecting travelers to destinations across the Pacific region. With ongoing improvements and expansions, the airport is poised to continue its legacy as a vital transportation hub in the South Pacific.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Honiara International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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