Kona International Airport at Keāhole
(KOA)
The United Service Organizations (USO) provides vital support to active-duty military members and their families traveling through Hawaiʻi. While Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) does not currently host a full-service USO lounge within the terminal, military travelers arriving on Hawaiʻi Island still have access to USO support services and nearby military resources.
KOA serves as a major civilian gateway to the island and is frequently used by service members traveling to or from West Hawaiʻi for training assignments, temporary duty, or leave. The USO continues its mission through off-airport centers, outreach programs, and partnerships with local military organizations.
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. Authorized by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the USO unified six civilian organizations to create welcoming spaces for service members.
Throughout World War II, the USO became widely known for its morale-boosting “Camp Shows,” featuring entertainers such as Bob Hope and Marilyn Monroe. These efforts established the USO as a trusted source of comfort for troops far from home.
Today, the USO operates hundreds of locations worldwide, including airport lounges, military base centers, and mobile outreach programs. Its mission remains unchanged: to strengthen America’s service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country.
Although Kona International Airport does not currently have an on-site USO lounge, military travelers are supported through:
USO-operated facilities elsewhere on Hawaiʻi Island.
Partnerships with local military commands and organizations.
Community-based USO outreach and special programs.
Volunteer support for service members and military families.
Military personnel transiting through KOA are encouraged to check the official USO website or contact the Hawaiʻi USO network for current service availability.
1. Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA)
Pohakuloa Training Area, located along Saddle Road, is the largest Department of Defense training facility in the Pacific. It supports Army, Marine Corps, National Guard, and joint-force training operations.
Military training and staging operations.
Logistical and administrative support.
Access to military resources during training rotations.
2. Hawaiʻi Army National Guard Facilities (Kona & Hilo Areas)
The Hawaiʻi Army National Guard maintains facilities on Hawaiʻi Island that provide administrative, training, and community support services for Guard members.
Personnel support and administration.
Training coordination.
Family readiness and community support programs.
While KOA does not offer a dedicated USO lounge, service members traveling through the airport can expect:
Respectful and professional airport staff.
ADA-accessible terminal facilities.
Family-friendly public seating areas.
Nearby hotels, dining, and medical facilities.
Strong local community support for military personnel.
Travelers with special needs or time-sensitive situations should notify airline staff or airport operations personnel for assistance.
Plan ahead and confirm USO services elsewhere on the island.
Carry essential items such as snacks, chargers, and comfort items.
Use airport Wi-Fi and available charging areas.
Check USO programs for holiday events and outreach activities.
While Kona International Airport does not currently host a dedicated on-site USO lounge, the USO’s mission remains active on Hawaiʻi Island through nearby facilities, outreach programs, and community partnerships.
For service members traveling through KOA, the spirit of the USO— comfort, connection, and care—extends beyond the terminal. Whether arriving for duty, training, or well-earned leave, military travelers can be confident that support resources are available throughout the island.