USO on Kahului airport

USO Facilities at Kahului Airport

Kahului Airport

(Maui Airport – OGG)

Kahului Airport (OGG) serves as the primary gateway to the island of Maui. While there is currently no full-service USO lounge located inside Kahului Airport, active-duty military members and their families traveling through OGG can still access USO support through nearby off-airport services and statewide USO Hawaiʻi programs.

This page explains what military travelers can expect at OGG, how the USO supports service members on Maui, and where to find additional resources when traveling through the airport.

A Brief History of the USO

The United Service Organizations (USO) was founded in 1941 during World War II to support the morale and well-being of U.S. Armed Forces members. Established under the direction of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the USO unified six civilian organizations to provide comfort, recreation, and connection for service members far from home.

Over the decades, the USO has expanded its mission worldwide, operating airport lounges, military-base centers, and outreach programs that offer rest areas, refreshments, communication tools, and community support. Today, the USO continues to serve active-duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, veterans, and their families across the globe.

USO Availability at Kahului Airport (OGG)

At this time:

  • OGG does not have an on-site USO lounge or center
  • There are no dedicated USO rest areas within the terminal
  • Military travelers use the same public terminal amenities as other passengers

However, the absence of a terminal-based USO does not mean support is unavailable.

USO Support on Maui and in Hawaiʻi

Military members traveling through Kahului Airport may still receive USO assistance through:

  • USO Hawaiʻi statewide programs
  • Off-airport USO outreach events and seasonal support
  • Coordination with nearby military units and commands
  • USO services at other Hawaiʻi airports, depending on travel routing

Service members are encouraged to check the official USO Hawaiʻi website or contact USO Hawaiʻi directly for the most up-to-date information on available programs, mobile lounges, holiday events, and family support services on Maui.

Military Presence on Maui

While Maui does not host large permanent military installations comparable to Oʻahu, the island supports:

  • Hawaiʻi Army National Guard units
  • Training rotations and temporary duty assignments
  • Military families residing on Maui

Airport staff and the local community are generally familiar with assisting military travelers and can help direct personnel to appropriate off-airport resources if needed.

What Military Travelers Can Expect at OGG

Although there is no USO lounge, Kahului Airport offers:

  • Clean, accessible terminal facilities
  • Family-friendly seating areas
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
  • Nearby hotels, medical facilities, and dining options
  • Supportive airport staff who can assist in emergencies

Military travelers with special needs or tight connections should notify airline staff in advance.

Tips for Military Members Traveling Through OGG

  • Plan Ahead: If you rely on USO lounge amenities, confirm availability at other Hawaiʻi airports or off-airport locations before travel.
  • Carry Essentials: Bring chargers, snacks, and comfort items in your carry-on.
  • Check USO Hawaiʻi Programs: Special holiday and deployment-support events may be available on Maui.
  • Stay Connected: Use airport Wi-Fi and charging areas in public spaces.

While Kahului Airport does not currently host an on-site USO facility, the mission of the USO remains active on Maui through statewide programs and community outreach. Military members and their families traveling through OGG can still rely on the broader USO Hawaiʻi network for support, connection, and assistance.

For the latest information on USO services available on Maui or elsewhere in Hawaiʻi, service members are encouraged to visit the official USO website or contact USO Hawaiʻi directly.