Power generator issues trigger hourslong screening delays at Lihue Airport

Sep 11, 2026

A storm-damaged backup generator left Lihue Airport running on limited power, causing long security lines and missed flights — bad news for travelers trying to leave Kauai.

  • One of the airport's two backup generators was damaged in the storm, leaving enough power for only a single screening line.
  • Some passengers waited four hours to get through security and still missed their flights.
  • The x-ray machines kept shutting off and had to be restarted, slowing the lines further.
  • Flights landed in Honolulu carrying more bags than passengers, since travelers were stuck in line while their luggage flew ahead.
  • Hawaiian Airlines held some departures, and the fire department handed out water to people waiting in the heat.

Outlook: Power is back on at the airport and three screening lines are open again, but the National Guard is still clearing debris across Kauai so crews can restore power and move in food and water.

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