Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) is Hawaiʻi’s primary gateway to the island’s west side and operates largely as an open-air airport. Despite its unique design, KOA strictly follows Hawaiʻi State smoking and vaping laws, which are among the most restrictive in the United States.
If you are a smoker or vaper traveling through KOA, it is important to understand where smoking is permitted, where it is prohibited, and how to remain compliant with state and airport regulations.
1. Minimum Age Requirement
You must be 21 years or older to purchase or use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and electronic vaping devices.
2. Smoke-Free Public Spaces
Smoking and vaping are prohibited in most public places, including indoor areas, workplaces, public transportation, and many outdoor locations.
3. Vaping Treated as Smoking
Electronic cigarettes and vape devices are subject to the same restrictions as traditional tobacco products.
4. Penalties for Violations
Smoking or vaping in prohibited areas may result in fines, typically starting at up to $100 for a first offense, with higher penalties for repeat violations.
These laws apply statewide, including at all public airports on Hawaiʻi Island.
Kona International Airport maintains a smoke-free environment within all terminal buildings and covered areas. Smoking and vaping are not permitted in the following locations:
Inside any terminal buildings or enclosed spaces.
Security screening areas and boarding gate zones.
Restrooms and covered walkways.
Restaurants, concessions, and airline seating areas.
Baggage claim interiors and sheltered waiting areas.
This prohibition applies to all tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, e-cigarettes, and vape pens.
Smoking and vaping are allowed only in designated outdoor areas at Kona International Airport. Due to the airport’s open-air design, these areas are located away from passenger flow and building entrances.
Typical designated smoking locations include:
Outdoor areas away from terminal entrances.
Designated curbside zones marked with smoking signage.
Areas positioned to maintain distance from doors, ventilation, and pedestrian pathways.
Important: Smoking is not permitted within 20 feet of terminal entrances, exits, or air intake vents—even outdoors.
Because designated smoking locations may change, travelers are encouraged to confirm current approved areas with airport staff upon arrival.
All indoor and covered airport spaces.
Passenger boarding and gate seating areas.
Parking structures and pedestrian walkways.
Near terminal doors, windows, or ventilation systems.
Failure to comply with airport smoking rules may result in fines or enforcement action.
Smoke Before Entering the Terminal: There are no smoking areas past airline check-in or security.
Use Designated Areas Only: Smoking outside approved zones can result in citations.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Use provided ashtrays and disposal containers.
Carry-On Rules for Vaping Devices: E-cigarettes and spare lithium batteries must be carried on, not checked.
Be Courteous to Others: Be mindful of wind direction, families, kūpuna (elders), and sensitive travelers.
Respect for the land (ʻāina) and community is a deeply held value in Hawaiʻi. Smoking outside designated areas or improper disposal of cigarette waste is considered disrespectful and harmful.
Cigarette waste poses serious risks to marine life and coastal ecosystems. Proper disposal helps protect Hawaiʻi Island’s natural and cultural resources.
Kona International Airport enforces strict smoking and vaping regulations in accordance with Hawaiʻi state law. Smoking and vaping are prohibited in all terminal and covered areas, with use permitted only in clearly designated outdoor locations.
By following posted signage, respecting local laws, and being mindful of others, smokers and vapers can ensure a smooth, respectful, and compliant travel experience through KOA.