Connecting at HNL - how long to leave?

[tizey]

How long would you leave to clear customs/passport control at HNL before an inter-island flight to OGG? HA website says 2hrs, but is this sufficient?

Dilemma I've got it I've redeemed a ticket HND-KIX-HNL, but didnt realise I should have (or even could have) booked HND-KIX-HNL-OGG as we are starting off our time in Maui. If I changed the award redemption and included the OGG flight on same ticket and we're running late, am I covered in the event of a delay into HNL, missing the originally booked OGG sector?

Re-issue fee will be $175 USD, then 2x7,500 points + $11 taxes.. doesnt seem like great redemption value when I can buy the flight for $90 per pax, but if it gave peace of mind on that connection, I'd be OK in wearing the cost of changing the award to know it doesnt matter what time we get in - AA will re-book us on the next OGG flight.

Not interested in staying in Honolulu for a night - we're coming back and spending 5 days after the first 5 days in Maui.

 

[Mattg]

Two hours should be more than enough. I've found HNL customs/immigration to be relatively quick and painless, and it's just a short walk to the inter-island terminal after arrival.

Of course, if it's all on one ticket you'd be protected in the case of a delay to your inbound flight.

Personally I would probably take the risk but leave around 3 hours - not because the transfer takes 3 hours but to account for minor delays.

 

[ftm]

You could look at it from the point of view that worst case they make you buy a new ticket because you miss the flight. How much more than USD175 + points + tax will that be? If you're happy with that difference, then leave it as is.

 

[BacchusMarsh]

When I go to NOLA for Jazz Fest I usually buy a ticket on the first flight I think I can make if there aren't any delays, and then a backup one later. That's probably what I'd do here at $90...

 

[Dr Ralph]

2 hours should be OK.

 

[tizey]

Thanks for the advice guys - going to take the option and book a couple of hours out from arrival and hope for the best. Plenty of flights between HNL-OGG, so worst case should be able to snag something better if delayed.