Honiara International Airport

Honiara International Airport (HIR) is not merely the main air gateway to the Solomon Islands, but also a place with a rich history. Originally built as the military airfield Henderson Field, it was the epicentre of key events in the Pacific theatre of World War II. Today, it is a modern and renovated airport that welcomes travellers ready to discover the incredible nature and distinctive culture of the archipelago known as the "Happy Isles".

Honiara Airport serves as the primary hub for the national carrier Solomon Airlines, facilitating both domestic flights between the islands and international flights to Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and other nations in Oceania. Despite its compact size, the terminal offers everything needed to start your journey: here you can purchase local SIM cards, visit a small duty-free shop, or select souvenirs. Convenient transport links make it easy to reach the city — taxis, minibuses, and car rental desks await travellers at the terminal exit, making your arrival in the Solomon Islands as comfortable as possible.

• Official Website: At the time of writing, the airport may not have a dedicated official website. It is recommended to check the Solomon Airlines website or the Civil Aviation Authority of the Solomon Islands portal for up-to-date information on flights, regulations, and services.
• Help Desk Phone: A unified help desk number may be unavailable or change frequently. For the most accurate and prompt information regarding your flight, we strongly recommend contacting your airline's representative office directly.
• Airport Address: Honiara International Airport (HIR), Guadalcanal Province, Solomon Islands. The airport is located approximately 8 kilometres east of the centre of Honiara.
• Email and Social Media: Direct airport contacts via email or social networks may not be available. All communications are best conducted through the official channels (websites, call centres) of the airlines operating your flight.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the Lost & Found service of the airline you arrived with. Airline counters are located in the arrivals hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support for most issues (ticket changes, special services, assistance) is provided directly by the air carriers. Please approach the check-in counter or your airline's representative office within the airport building.

Honiara International Airport (HIR) is the main air gateway of the Solomon Islands. It is situated approximately 8 kilometres east of the capital's centre, Honiara. The journey from the city to the terminal usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, though this time may increase during peak hours. The choice of transport depends on your budget and comfort preferences.

Taxi and Hotel Transfer — this is the most convenient and fastest option. You can hail a taxi in the city or ask to book a car at your hotel reception. Many hotels offer their own transfer service. Important tip: be sure to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as taximeters are rarely used. This method allows you to reach the airport without unnecessary transfers or hassle.

Public Transport consists of minibuses, which are the most budget-friendly way to travel. These vans run along the main road passing near the airport. Be prepared to walk a short distance from the stop to the terminal building. This option is ideal for independent travellers who wish to save money and experience the local atmosphere. It is worth noting that there are no conventional bus services, trains, or metro systems in Honiara.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to explore Guadalcanal Island at their own pace. Car rental desks are available both at the airport and in the city. Parking is available near the terminal, although it is primarily intended for short-term stays — dropping off and picking up passengers.

Additionally, Honiara International Airport is a key hub for domestic flights across the archipelago. If you plan to visit other islands, flights depart from here to destinations such as Kirakira Airport, Seghe Airport, and Fera Island Airport, opening the way to remote and picturesque corners of the country.

International Airport of Honiara (HIR), the main aviation hub of the Solomon Islands, is distinguished by a simple and clear structure. The airport consists of one terminal that serves both international and domestic flights. Thanks to its compactness, navigating through it presents no difficulty even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. All main zones are located on one level within walking distance of each other. Upon entering the building, you will immediately see the check-in counters. Departure and arrival zones are in different parts of the same terminal, so moving between them takes only a few minutes. There are no separate buildings or complex transfers requiring shuttles here — everything is under one roof.

The Departure Zone is located after the check-in counters and security checkpoint. It consists of a small waiting hall with basic amenities. There are several souvenir shops, a small cafeteria, and a Duty Free counter. Despite the modest size, there is enough space in the hall for comfortable waiting. The Arrival Zone includes passport control counters, baggage reclaim belts, and a customs point. Immediately after exiting the arrival zone, passengers enter the general hall where hotel representatives meet them, and where car rental offices and the taxi stand are located.

Completing all formalities at Honiara Airport usually does not take much time. Check-in and security screening rarely take more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, for international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport typically 2-3 hours before departure to avoid any unforeseen delays. Navigation is intuitive, and signs in English will help you orient yourself easily. The main advice is simply to follow standard procedures, and you will find everything you need without difficulty.

The history of Honiara International Airport (HIR) is inextricably linked with some of the most dramatic events of World War II in the Pacific region. The airfield was founded not as a civil facility, but as a strategic military base. Its construction was begun by Japanese engineers in 1942 on the island of Guadalcanal. The aim was to create a stronghold for controlling sea routes between the USA and Australia.

However, these plans were not destined to be realised. In August 1942, before the work was fully completed, the airfield was captured by US Marines. This event marked the beginning of the bloody Battle of Guadalcanal. The Americans renamed the airfield Henderson Field in honour of Major Lofton Henderson, a pilot who died in the Battle of Midway. For several months, fierce fighting took place for control of this patch of land, which ultimately became a turning point in the Pacific War.

After the war ended, the military base was transformed into the country's main civil airport. It became a key transport hub connecting the Solomon Islands with the rest of the world. The old runways, built for fighters and bombers, were modernised to accommodate commercial airliners. Thus, a former battlefield turned into a gateway for tourists and a symbol of peaceful development.

In recent years, the airport has been undergoing a new stage of modernisation. With the support of international partners, a large-scale project was launched to build a new international terminal, expand the apron, and improve navigation equipment. These improvements are aimed at increasing passenger comfort and airport capacity, preparing it for future growth in tourism.

Interesting fact: the airport surroundings still bear traces of past battles. Travellers can find numerous memorials, remnants of military equipment, and small museums dedicated to World War II events nearby. Thus, arriving at Honiara International Airport is not just the start of a journey through tropical islands, but also a touch of living history.

Honiara International Airport (HIR) is a compact but functional aviation hub providing passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight.

The terminal features a small cafe where you can have a snack, coffee, or refreshments. Shops are also open, offering local souvenirs, handicrafts, and essential items. This is a great opportunity to buy a keepsake of your trip before departure.

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, there is a VIP lounge at the airport. Access is usually granted to business class passengers or loyalty card holders. Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, though terms of use should be checked on-site. The number of power outlets for charging gadgets may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

For financial matters, currency exchange points and ATMs operate at the airport. It is recommended to exchange a small amount immediately upon arrival to cover initial expenses. If necessary, basic medical assistance can be obtained in the terminal building.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with children and people with disabilities. There are rooms for baby care. For passengers requiring special assistance, such as the provision of a wheelchair, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. Airport staff will provide the necessary support.

There are no hotels within the airport grounds, but numerous accommodation options are located in the immediate vicinity and in the city of Honiara. They can be reached by taxi. Specialised business centres or conference rooms for business meetings are not provided at the airport.

Honiara International Airport (HIR) is the main air hub of the Solomon Islands, and while it cannot boast a large selection of restaurants like major global hubs, there is everything necessary to have a snack before departure.

The main dining points are located in the general departure hall, in the so-called "landside" zone, accessible to all visitors before passing passport control and screening. Typically, these are one or two small cafes offering a basic assortment of food and drinks. After passing security control, in the "airside" zone, the choice is usually more limited and may be reduced to a small kiosk with beverages and packaged snacks.

In the menu of local cafes, you will most likely find standard options for travellers: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and soft drinks. You can also have tea or coffee here. Sometimes the assortment includes simple hot dishes, for example, instant noodles or rice dishes. To experience the local flavour, look for fresh tropical fruit drinks or locally produced packaged snacks.

Regarding special dietary requirements, finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes at Honiara airport can be difficult. It is recommended to choose simple and clear products, such as fruit, or check the composition of dishes with staff. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it would be more reliable to bring food with you. Prices at the airport, as everywhere, are slightly higher than in the city.

Opening hours of catering establishments are directly linked to the flight schedule — they open a few hours before departure and close after the last planes depart. If you are counting on a full meal, it is better to do so in the city before travelling to the airport. For a quick snack or a cup of coffee, the cafes in the general departure hall are quite suitable.

When planning a departure from Honiara International Airport, the main air hub of the Solomon Islands, several points should be considered to make your journey as comfortable as possible. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This time will be enough to go through all procedures without haste, even if small queues arise.

The check-in and security control process at Honiara airport usually proceeds more calmly than in major global hubs, but one should not be too relaxed. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option. When choosing a seat on the plane, especially on day flights, prefer a window seat — upon take-off and landing, stunning views of coral reefs and islands may open up to you.

Hand luggage rules are standard: liquids in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, as well as the absence of sharp objects. Pay special attention to the export of corals, shells, and other natural souvenirs — special permits may be required for this. Upon entering the country, customs control is very strict regarding bio-security: be sure to declare all food products, plants, and goods of animal origin to avoid large fines.

If you have a transfer to another flight, especially a domestic one, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-register your luggage. Allow sufficient time for the transfer, as the schedule of flights between islands may change due to weather conditions. To save money, bring an empty water bottle (it can be filled after screening) and some local currency (Solomon Islands Dollar) for small purchases at the airport.

In case of a flight delay, be prepared for limited leisure opportunities at the airport. Bring a book, a charged power bank for gadgets, and a light snack. Airline staff will provide information on the status of your flight and further actions. The main thing is to remain calm and perceive the wait as part of the island adventure.