Pohnpei Airport (PNI)

Pohnpei International Airport (PNI), opened on 19 June 1970, is the main gateway to the Federated States of Micronesia. It is located on the islet of Deketik, connected by a causeway to Kolonia, the state capital. It operates direct flights to key international destinations such as Guam, Honolulu, Majuro and Nauru, as well as inter-island connections via the route known as the "Island Hopper".

Official Website: ppa.fm

Telephone: +691 320 3241

Terminals

The airport has a single passenger terminal that centralises all domestic and international operations. Due to its manageable scale, check-in, customs and baggage reclaim services are located within a short distance of each other inside the same building.

Annual Traffic (2025): The airport is estimated to handle a steady flow consistent with regional connectivity of around 80,000–100,000 passengers per year.

Information Points

Inside the main terminal there are counters where staff from the Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA) provide basic assistance regarding flights and airport services. As it is a small facility, most assistance services are centralised in the check-in area and the main hall.

 Location

The airport is located in Deketik, an islet connected to the State of Pohnpei, 2.4 km (1.5 miles) north of Kolonia and 8.7 km (5.4 miles) north-east of Palikir.

What services does Pohnpei Airport (PNI) offer?

Given the scale of the airport, passenger services are basic and are mainly concentrated in the public area of the terminal and the boarding lounge. Most facilities adjust their opening hours to coincide with the arrival and departure times of commercial flights.

Food and Drink

The terminal has a café and a snack bar in the public area where light meals, coffee, drinks and local products can be purchased. There is also a small refreshments counter in the waiting area after security for passengers awaiting their flight.

Shopping

The airport has a gift and craft shop where it is possible to buy typical Micronesian souvenirs, such as wooden carvings and traditional Pohnpei skirts. There is also a small Duty Free section available exclusively to international passengers, offering a limited selection of spirits, tobacco and perfumes.

Baggage

The terminal does not provide left luggage facilities or lockers for baggage storage for security reasons. In the event of lost, damaged or delayed checked baggage, you must contact the airline you travelled with at its check-in desk before leaving the terminal to file a claim.

Other Services

• ATMs: Cash machines can be found in the main hall, generally operated by Bank of Guam or Bank of FSM. It is advisable to withdraw US dollars (USD) before travelling to more remote areas of the island.
• Connectivity: The airport offers Wi-Fi access, although it is a paid service via prepaid cards that can be purchased at the terminal shops.
• Postal services: There is a post box and occasionally basic courier services available in the public area.
• Toilets: Public restrooms are available and regularly maintained in both the departure and arrival areas.

Accommodation near Pohnpei Airport (PNI)

Although there are no accommodation facilities within the terminal building, the China Star Hotel is located on the same islet of Deketik, just a short distance away, allowing for quick access. The rest of the hotel offer is concentrated in the city of Kolonia, which is connected to the airport via a causeway that can be reached in just a few minutes by car.

Nearby Accommodation

• China Star Hotel: The closest option to the airport area, ideal for travellers looking to minimise transfer times. It offers a complimentary shuttle service, a Chinese restaurant, a hot tub and Wi-Fi access.
• South Park Hotel: Offers a privileged location with views over the bay and proximity to government offices, making logistics easier for business travellers.
• Sea Breeze Hotel & Restaurant: Known for its seaside dining offer and direct access from the main road linking the airport with the town centre.
• Cliff Hotel & Restaurant: A long-established property that usually coordinates pick-up services for guests, ensuring a smooth transfer from the terminal.
• Joy Hotel & Restaurant: Located in the heart of Kolonia, allowing guests easy access to commercial and banking services.
• Yvonne's Hotel: Provides a quiet and functional atmosphere, serving as an efficient option for those seeking comfortable accommodation close to the island’s entry point.

It is advisable to contact the chosen hotel in advance to confirm transfer availability, as most establishments offer complimentary transport or services at an additional charge for their guests.

Hotel search tool: Check availability and prices.

Parking services at Pohnpei Airport (PNI)

The site has an open-air car park located directly in front of the terminal building. The walking distance from vehicles to the check-in counters and arrivals area is only a few metres.

Short and Long Stays

The car park operates under a single-zone system that serves both short stays (passenger drop-off and pick-up) and longer periods. The area is not covered, so vehicles are left exposed to the elements, although basic lighting is provided for night flight operations.

Accessibility

Designated spaces are available for vehicles transporting passengers with reduced mobility. These spaces are located closest to the main terminal entrance to ensure easier access.

Fees: Use of the car park is subject to a nominal fee managed by the Pohnpei Port Authority. It is recommended to carry cash in US dollars (USD) for payment, as automated systems or credit card payments may not be consistently available at the control booth.

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Pohnpei Airport is a small-scale terminal offering basic accessibility facilities for travellers with reduced mobility or special needs. Due to the nature of the infrastructure and the type of aircraft operating in the region, detailed planning before travel is recommended.

Infrastructure and Mobility

The terminal has access ramps at the main entrances and adapted toilets in both public and boarding areas. It is important to note that the airport does not have jet bridges; boarding and disembarkation take place directly on the apron. For passengers with reduced mobility, airlines provide mechanical lifts or manual assistance to access the cabin, provided that the service has been requested in advance.

Service Coordination

To ensure the availability of assistance staff and support equipment (such as aisle wheelchairs), passengers must contact their airline at least 48 hours before departure. This applies to mobility assistance as well as support for unaccompanied minors or passengers with sensory disabilities.

Recommendation: If travelling with your own wheelchair or medical assistance equipment, check with the airline regarding regulations for battery transport and size limits in the cargo holds of aircraft operating routes in Micronesia.