How much time shall I allow for a layover at HNL?
 

I will be travelling to Oahu and the Big Island in October. My Delta flight leaves HNL on October 13th at 8:55pm. I will be flying from KOA to HNL that afternoon/early evening to connect with my Delta flight. How much time do I need to allow in between flights in HNL. I will have to claim my luggage and check in at Delta? I can either arrive at HNL around 4:30 - 5:00pm or around 6:45pm. I would prefer the later flight so I can spend more time on the beach, but common sense tells me to take the earlier flight. Any thoughts?

Thanks - Matt

Did you check to see if the airlines would transfer for you? Otherwise I would do two hours.

I'm aware I will have to claim luggage and check in at Delta. Disregard the question mark. I'm Gold Medallion, so I can check in at the Medallion/First Class counter. I purchased my fare for $544 r/t from Kansas City....there are some great fares for October.

You shouldn't have to claim and re-check your luggage at HNL. Your luggage can be checked all the way through. I think a 2 hour layover is sufficient. But if you're concerned, you could always take an earlier flight from KOA, grab a cab at HNL, have an early dinner at Sam Choy's on Nimitz, and head back to HNL for your mainland bound flight (allowing enough time for the security check upon re-entering the airport).

Yes, I was thinking the same thing: you should not have to collect your bags in Honolulu and re-check at Delta. I have flown to the mainland from a neighbor island at least 40 times and have never had to pick up my bags in Honolulu and re-check in with mainland carrier.

A 2 hour connection is fine; the airlines only require a 75 minute connection if you are changing planes and the luggage needs to be transferred.

Thanks to all!