Kona Airport to Get New Fire-Fighting Building

Kona International Airport will get a new aircraft rescue and fire-fighting building thanks to a $17 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration.

The new facility will protect existing rescue and fire-fighting equipment at the airport from adverse weather.

“Recent statistics show us that visitor arrivals and spending are up this year and ensuring safe and efficient air travel for our residents and visitors is vital to maintaining the health of the industry,” Sen. Daniel Inouye said in a statement from Hawaii’s congressional delegation announcing the grant. “I would like to thank the administration for this critical investment.”

The airport which covers 3,450 acres about seven miles north of Kailua-Kona features an 11,000-foot runway.