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Aloha and Welcome to Hawaii
What to Expect at the Hawaii Airport
Your Arrival Experience at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport
Congratulations, you've landed at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) on Oahu! As a designated U.S. Port of Entry, you will now go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) inspections. Here's the typical flow:
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1. Deplaning
Follow the signs for "International Arrivals" or "U.S. Customs." The airport is well-marked, but don't hesitate to ask airport staff if you're unsure. They're used to helping international visitors.
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2. Primary Inspection
You will queue to speak with a CBP officer. You'll need to present your passport (and visa, if applicable). The officer will likely ask a few simple questions about the purpose and duration of your trip. They will also take your fingerprints and a photograph.
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3. Baggage & Customs
After inspection, you'll proceed to baggage claim to collect your luggage. From there, you will go through the final customs checkpoint.
💡 What to Expect During Primary Inspection
The questions are typically straightforward: "What brings you to Hawaii?" "How long are you staying?" "Where are you staying?" Answer honestly and briefly. This isn't an interrogation; it's a routine process to verify your documentation and ensure you're eligible for entry.
The baggage claim area at HNL is large and can be busy, especially during peak travel times. Check the monitors to find your flight and carousel number. If your luggage doesn't arrive, report it immediately to your airline's baggage service office before leaving the airport.
The I-94 Process
The Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record is now an automated, electronic process for almost all arrivals by air and sea. CBP creates a digital record of your admission. You won't receive a paper stub in your passport. If you need to prove your legal visitor status (for example, to rent a car for a long term), you can access your I-94 record online through the official CBP website.
This electronic system is more efficient than the old paper system, but it means you need to be proactive about accessing your records if needed. Save the website link and your information in case you need to retrieve your I-94 later during your trip.
Forms and Declarations
While on your flight, you will likely be given a Customs Declaration Form to fill out. This is now often handled at digital kiosks upon arrival as well. It is critical to be honest on this form.
🚨 You MUST Declare
All food, plants, and animal products:
Take this very seriously. Hawaii is the only U.S. state that is rabies-free, and our ecosystem is incredibly fragile and isolated. An undeclared piece of fruit or a meat sandwich could introduce devastating pests or diseases. Declaring an item is not a crime; the worst they can do is confiscate it. Failing to declare it can result in significant fines.
This is a legal expression of our duty to mālama i ka ʻāina.
Currency over $10,000 USD:
If you or your family traveling together are carrying $10,000 or more in cash or other negotiable instruments, you must declare it. Your money will not be taxed, but it must be declared.
🌺 Why Agricultural Inspection is So Important
The agricultural inspection is thorough because Hawaii's isolation has created unique ecosystems that are vulnerable to invasive species. Coffee berry borer, coconut rhinoceros beetle, and little fire ants are just a few examples of devastating pests that have been accidentally introduced to the islands. Your cooperation in declaring food items helps protect Hawaii's environment and agriculture.
Common Items That Must Be Declared:
Food Items
- • Fresh, dried, or cooked fruits
- • Vegetables and herbs
- • Meat and dairy products
- • Seeds, nuts, and spices
- • Tea and coffee (some restrictions)
Other Items
- • Live plants or cuttings
- • Wooden items or bamboo
- • Soil or sand from other countries
- • Animal products (leather, fur)
- • Medications (bring prescriptions)
Successfully Through Customs?
Great! Now let's talk about managing your money and understanding Hawaii's tipping culture.
Money & Tipping Guide →📚 Complete Guide
✈️ Arrival Process
1 Follow International Arrivals signs
2 Present passport to CBP officer
3 Fingerprints & photograph
4 Collect baggage
5 Customs checkpoint
✓ Welcome to Hawaii!
📞 Airport Contacts
- Airport Info: (808) 836-6411
- Ground Transportation: (808) 836-6413
- Lost & Found: (808) 836-6438
- Tourist Hotline: (808) 973-2255
🚫 Never Bring
- • Fresh fruits or vegetables
- • Meat or dairy products
- • Live plants or cuttings
- • Soil or sand
- • Animal products
When in doubt, declare it! Better safe than sorry.
