Airport wait times

Question

How are airport wait times lately? Is two hours necessary? Usually we get through pretty quickly but thought I'd ask to see how it's been recently.

Thanks in advance!

Answer

Airport wait times in Kauai (LIH – Lihue Airport) can vary depending on the time of year, day of the week, and airline. In general, Hawaii airports have become busier as tourism continues to rebound, so it’s wise to plan extra time even if your past experiences were quick.

Here’s a detailed overview:

Security Lines: Security can be fast, especially during early morning and late evening flights, but mid-morning and afternoon tend to be busier. TSA generally advises arriving 2 hours prior for domestic flights.
Check-in Counters: If you are checking luggage, lines can add 15–30 minutes. Using online check-in and carry-on only can save time.
Peak Travel Times: Weekends, holidays, and popular flight departure times (around 6–9am and 3–6pm) usually have the longest lines.
Recent Observations: Travelers report that pre-security wait times are manageable most days, but unexpected delays such as staffing shortages or multiple flights arriving together can occur. Two hours remains the safest window for stress-free travel, especially if you have a connecting flight.

Tips to Minimize Wait Times:

Check-in online and have boarding passes ready on your phone.
Use TSA PreCheck if eligible to expedite security screening.
Arrive earlier if you have checked bags or travel during peak periods.
Monitor airport updates and your airline’s notifications for delays.

In summary, while Kauai airport is generally efficient, allocating two hours prior to departure is still recommended for peace of mind and to accommodate any unexpected delays, especially during busier periods.

Airport wait times

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