Honolulu's transportation landscape is undergoing significant changes, addressing both long-standing challenges and the growing needs of its residents. The city is home to the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), the state’s primary aviation hub, alongside Kalaeloa Airport, which serves general aviation and military aircraft.

Highway congestion remains a critical issue, with Honolulu ranking among the most traffic-congested cities in the U.S. Major roadways include Interstate H-1, which stretches from Kapolei to Waialae/Kahala, and H-3, which connects Halawa Heights to Kaneohe via the Koʻolau Range. Other key highways such as the Pali, Likelike, and Kamehameha highways link Honolulu to different regions of Oʻahu.

To address traffic concerns, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART) is spearheading the development of Skyline, a 20-mile rail transit system designed to ease congestion and support urban expansion. The first segment of Skyline, connecting East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, officially launched on June 30, 2023, following delays and budget adjustments. Despite concerns over costs and environmental impact, the project is expected to provide a reliable alternative for commuters.

Honolulu’s public transit remains a vital mode of transportation, with TheBus offering 107 routes across Oʻahu. The city’s Handi-Van service caters to individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility in alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Honolulu has one of the highest per-capita transit usage rates in the country, highlighting the reliance on public transport.

For those seeking alternative mobility options, Biki, the city’s bike-sharing program, continues to expand. Operated by Secure Bike Share, the system includes stations throughout downtown Honolulu, Waikīkī, and university areas, promoting sustainable urban commuting.

According to the 2016 American Community Survey, 56% of Honolulu residents commute by driving alone, while 11.7% use public transportation. The city has a notably high percentage of car-free households, with 17.2% of residents living without a personal vehicle—nearly double the national average.

As Honolulu continues to grow, balancing infrastructure development with sustainability remains a key challenge. With ongoing investments in transit, road networks, and alternative transport, the city is striving to create a more efficient and accessible urban mobility system.