How much time will I need to catch an inter-island flight?
 

sorry about the double post - I forgot to tag the hawaii forum

I'll have to clear customs, retrieve baggage and check in for my flight to Hilo. I am worried that my incoming flight could be delayed, but I don't want to be hanging around the Honolulu airport longer than needed.
Right now, based on my arrival time, my only choices are 1 1/2 hours or 4 1/2 between flights.

1 1/2 hours will be fine if you land on time.

I agree that's plenty IF your first flight lands on time. Where are you coming in from? On what airline? How's their on-time record?

If you're booking that interisland flight on your own, I'd give yourself the 4 1/2 hours, JUST IN CASE your arriving flight to Hawaii is delayed, or if you have problems with bags, customs, etc.

You could also check with the interisland airline to see what would happen if you missed your connecting flight....if they'd be willing to let you catch the next available one. If they are agreeable, then I'd go with the 1 1/2 hour one.

I agree to check out your options ... if you miss that first flight, can you use your ticket for the later one?

I'd take a chance on the 1.5 hours. We've done it successfully a ton of times.