Travelers departing from Honolulu Airport (HNL) should now plan extra time for their mandatory pre-flight baggage inspection due to a significant reduction in staffing at agricultural inspection stations. This development comes as the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) warned domestic air travelers about delays that may disrupt travel plans, especially those with early morning flights.
USDA inspection stations are being used to prevent the spread of harmful pests, plants, and diseases entering the mainland. They ensure no prohibited food or other items leave the islands and enter the U.S. mainland, Alaska, or Guam.
In recent days, staffing shortages at these key inspection points have meant that travelers may encounter longer-than-usual lines, potentially leading to missed flights or rushed travel experiences. That is expected to get worse starting next week. Last week, BOH editors nearly missed their 7 am flight to the mainland due to issues with agriculture inspection.
What you need to know.
Starting April 6, 2025, changes to the hours and availability of agricultural inspection stations at HNL are expected to significantly impact how early travelers need to arrive at the airport. As outlined by the HDOT, only one inspection station in Lobby 7 will be operational after 8 a.m. This station, which is located near the American Airlines check-in counters, will open at 5 a.m. but close at 8 a.m. for the entire day…