Chapter 12- Impact of Transportation

Kauai is entirely dependent on air and sea movement. This can have several repercussions. Items of luxury and everyday value are more expensive and often slow to arrive.  The islands of Hawaii are all required to import much of its food, nearly all energy supplies and vehicles, as well as other materials.  


The Lihue Airport is located on the eastern side of Kauai.  It is often called the aviation gateway to Kauai.  The airport has direct flights to Honolulu, Maui, the United States mainland and Vancouver.  It covers an area of 879 acres and at an elevation of 153 feet above sea level.  The State of Hawaii owns the airport and is operated by the Department of Transportation.  American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and US Airways all utilize Boeing 757-200’s between Lihue and their mainland destinations. Alaska Airlines and WestJet utilize Next Generation Boeing 737-800’s between Lihue and their mainland destinations while Hawaiian Airlines uses Boeing 717-200’s between Lihue and Honolulu.