Located on the northwestern side of the Big Island of Hawaii, Waimea-Kohala Airport is a small regional airport that serves as an essential transportation hub for the residents and visitors of the Kohala and Waimea districts. The airport, also known as Kamuela Airport, is situated at an elevation of 2,671 feet above sea level and occupies 136 acres of land. It is primarily used for general aviation, air taxi, and helicopter operations.

Waimea-Kohala Airport has a single asphalt runway that is 4,451 feet long and 150 feet wide. The runway is designated as 4/22, indicating its orientation to the north and south. The airport has a small terminal building with basic amenities, including restrooms and vending machines. There is also a parking area for both commercial and private vehicles.

The airport serves as a crucial link for residents of the remote and rural districts of Kohala and Waimea. Many locals rely on the airport for essential services such as medical evacuations, emergency response, and business travel. The airport also plays a vital role in supporting the local economy by facilitating tourism and commerce in the area.

In addition to serving as a lifeline for the local community, Waimea-Kohala Airport is also frequented by visitors to the Big Island. Tourists often fly into the airport to access the stunning natural beauty and cultural attractions of the Kohala and Waimea districts. From Waimea-Kohala Airport, visitors can easily explore nearby attractions such as the Waipi'o Valley, Mauna Kea Observatory, and the beautiful beaches of the Kohala Coast.

Despite its small size and limited facilities, Waimea-Kohala Airport is an important transportation hub in the region. The airport handles a significant amount of air traffic, including commercial flights, private charters, and helicopter tours. The airport is particularly busy during peak tourist seasons and special events, such as the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival and the annual Waimea Round-Up Rodeo.

While Waimea-Kohala Airport provides essential air transportation services, it also faces some challenges and limitations. The airport's location at a high elevation can pose operational challenges for pilots, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The airport's runway is relatively short, which restricts the types of aircraft that can operate at the facility. As a result, the airport primarily serves smaller aircraft such as Cessnas and helicopters.

In recent years, there have been discussions about expanding and upgrading Waimea-Kohala Airport to better meet the needs of the community and accommodate larger aircraft. Proposed improvements include extending the runway, upgrading the terminal building, and enhancing safety and security measures. These upgrades would not only benefit the local residents and businesses but also attract more tourists to the area.

In conclusion, Waimea-Kohala Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the remote districts of Kohala and Waimea to the rest of the island and beyond. Despite its small size and limitations, the airport provides essential air transportation services for residents, visitors, and businesses in the region. With the right investments and improvements, Waimea-Kohala Airport has the potential to become an even more vital and vibrant gateway to the natural wonders and cultural treasures of the Big Island of Hawaii.