Department of Transportation

HILO – The state Department of Transportation (HDOT) advises Hilo residents of an expected increase in nighttime aircraft traffic over the area due to the closure of Runway 8-26, as crews repave areas prone to ponding on Taxiway E at Hilo Airport. The closure will redirect cargo night flights to Runway 3-21. This requires flying over Hilo communities, and will increase air traffic noise during the evening hours.
Construction is weather dependent, and is expected to begin Tuesday night, August 12, and will take place from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Thursday morning, August 14. Work will resume on Sunday night, August 17, and continue through Wednesday morning, August 20.

The ponding was not caused by recent Hurricane Iselle or Julio, but is an existing issue Hilo Airport is working to address.

The HDOT appreciates residents’ patience and understanding as we work to improve the condition of the Hilo Airport’s Taxiways.