Overview

• Kona International Airport in Hawaii was abruptly closed on Monday due to cracks in the runway, causing significant flight disruptions and leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.
• The cracks, which were a previously known issue, had worsened due to recent heavy rains in the Kona area.
• Repairs began immediately and the airport was approved to resume operations on Tuesday morning, but delays are expected as airlines catch up.
• The Hawaii Department of Transportation plans to reconstruct the entire 11,000-foot runway this year to address the issue of runway pavement degradation.
• Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flight schedules.