AI-powered parking system debuts at Kona, Hilo airports on Big Island

A new ticketless parking system was launched at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole and Hilo International Airport to streamline entry and exit for drivers parking at the Big Island airports.

The system is in partnership with Metropolis, a company specializing in artificial intelligence–based parking technology.

Vehicles are identified by license plate recognition, eliminating the need for tickets. Parking fees are charged automatically through an online account.

Hawai‘i Department of Transportation Director Ed Sniffen said in a press release that the Hilo and Kona airports would be among the first in the country to have Metropolis’ innovative technology. There are now nine total airports in the nation who use the technology since its rollout last year.

Registration requires a mobile phone number, license plate information and a payment method. Those who choose not to register can continue using traditional ticketed parking and may pay attendants with cash, credit cards or debit cards upon exit.

Parking rates at both Kona and Hilo airports will remain unchanged.

Beginning in March, travelers will also be able to reserve parking in advance, further expanding parking options for passengers.

“Partnering with Kona and Hilo International Airports is especially meaningful to me, both professionally and personally,” said Courtney Fukuda, chief integration officer at Metropolis who was born and raised in Hawaiʻi.

“Together, we’re reshaping the start of the journey for both residents and visitors, reducing friction and maximizing convenience from the moment they arrive,” Fukuda said.

There are now 40-plus Metropolis lcoations in Hawaiʻi, Fukuda said.

Airport users can sign up for the new system by downloading the Metropolis app for iOS, visiting app.metropolis.io, or scanning a QR code at any airport on the Big Island.