Honiara Airport (HIR)

Honiara International Airport (HIR), opened on 7 August 1945 and formerly known as Henderson Field, is the main gateway connecting the Solomon Islands with the rest of the world. Located in Guadalcanal Province, it serves as the operational hub for the national airline Solomon Airlines. The airport provides access to direct international routes to key destinations such as Brisbane (Australia), Nadi (Fiji), Port Moresby (Papua New Guinea) and Port Vila (Vanuatu), in addition to managing an extensive network of domestic flights linking the various provinces of the archipelago.

Official Website: flysolomons.com

Telephone: +677 36563

Terminals

The airport complex features infrastructure divided to handle passenger flows, highlighting the recent modernisation of its facilities:

• International Terminal: A new terminal opened in 2023, funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), featuring modern check-in systems, enhanced boarding areas and services for international flights.
• Domestic Terminal: Located a short distance from the international terminal, it is dedicated exclusively to flights connecting with the country's local aerodromes.

Annual Traffic (2025): An estimated volume of approximately 200,000 passengers.

Information Points

In the main terminal hall there is an information desk where staff provide assistance regarding flights, local transport and general services. Visitors can also find tourist brochures and maps of the Solomon Islands to help newly arrived passengers find their way.

 Location

The airport is located 8 km (5 miles) east of the capital, Honiara.

Accommodation near Honiara Airport (HIR)

There are no hotels located within the airport grounds. However, due to the terminal’s proximity to the main road leading to the capital, travellers can find several accommodation options just a few minutes away, most of which offer shuttle services on request.

Nearby accommodation

The following options are located in the vicinity of the airport and are commonly used by transit passengers or those with early departures:

• Xiaos Henderson Hotel: The closest option to the terminal, making it ideal for passengers with early morning flights or late-night arrivals who wish to minimise transfer time. It offers free Wi-Fi, complimentary private parking and a 24-hour reception.
• Sanalae Apartments: Offers larger, fully equipped spaces, making it an excellent alternative for families or groups requiring independence during a short stay near the airport.
• Pacific Crown Hotel: This property stands out for its more robust infrastructure and its ability to manage group transfers, facilitating transport logistics to and from the airport.
• Happy Day Inn: Provides functional and budget-friendly accommodation along the main route to the city centre, ideal for travellers seeking a practical stay without being too far from the terminal.
• Honiara Hotel: A well-established hotel combining full services such as a swimming pool and multiple restaurants with a strategic location that allows quick access to the airport while avoiding the city centre’s heavier traffic.

Other reference options in the city centre include the Heritage Park Hotel, the Coral Sea Resort & Casino and the Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel, all offering services geared towards international tourism and business travel.

Search for more options: To explore real-time availability and compare prices in the Guadalcanal area, you can use the following link: Book hotels in Honiara.

Parking services at Honiara Airport (HIR)

The airport grounds include parking areas located in front of the terminal buildings. As part of the modernisation project, the parking facilities have been expanded and improved to provide greater capacity and convenience for passengers.

Surface parking

The airport features a large open-air parking area located within walking distance of both the new international terminal and the domestic terminal. The layout allows quick access to check-in areas and smooth exit flow from the arrivals zone. This space is intended for both short stays (pick-up and drop-off) and long-term parking.

Fees and payment methods

The charging system is generally based on an entry fee or time-based increments. It is important to note that payment is usually made in cash and in the local currency (Solomon Islands Dollar - SBD) at control points located at the exit of the car park. At present, there are no automated electronic payment systems or online booking options, so it is advisable to have cash available when collecting your vehicle.

Security: The area is equipped with night lighting and is periodically monitored by airport security staff. However, users are advised not to leave valuable items visible inside their vehicles.

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Honiara International Airport has significantly improved its accessibility standards following the opening of its new international terminal in 2023. The current facilities are designed to facilitate the smooth movement of all passengers, including those with reduced mobility or specific needs.

Assistance for reduced mobility

The new terminal features access ramps, wider corridors and adapted toilets. If you require special assistance, such as a wheelchair or help with boarding and disembarking, it is essential that you contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight departure. This allows ground staff and cabin crew to coordinate the necessary arrangements both in Honiara and at your destination.

Unaccompanied minors

Airlines operating at the airport offer escort services for children travelling alone. This service is generally available for children aged between 5 and 11 years (and optionally up to 15). It is recommended to check the specific requirements, forms and any additional fees directly with the airline at the time of booking.

Assistance dogs

Passengers travelling with guide or assistance dogs must notify the airline in advance. Due to the strict biosecurity regulations of the Solomon Islands, it is imperative to have all required health documentation and import/export permits issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock before arriving at the airport.

Additional recommendations

If you are travelling with medical equipment (oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, etc.) or require a special in-flight meal, ensure that this information is included in your booking. At the terminal, you may request additional assistance at your airline’s check-in desks.