Hihifo Airport

Wallis and Futuna → Hihifo Airport

Introduction

Located in the heart of Oceania, Hihifo Airport (IATA: WLS, ICAO: NLWW) is one of two primary airports which connect travelers with Wallis and Futuna – a beautiful French Polynesian island nation. A relatively small airport (5.6 km from the capital city of Mata-Utu), it was built by Seabees in March 1942 and is one of two main transport means that connect Uvea with the other islands. Major uplifts in capacity — the last of which occurred in 1964 — kept it a key connection hub for both domestic and overseas travelers.

Airlines and Destinations

Hihifo Airport is an airport in Wallis and Futuna serving the village of Hihifo on the island of Wallis. The primary runway at Hihifo Airport, 11/29, measures only 1,085m (3,560ft) long; it handles small regional airliners such as ATR-42s or Twin Otters to service other nearby South Pacific destinations like Nadi, Fiji. This includes connections to places like New Caledonia and Fiji, offering options for customers flying from more international ports.

Number of Passengers and Flights

Located on the island of Wallis, Hihifo Airport is a small regional airport that sees moderate levels of passenger traffic as well as flight activity. While there are no readily available exact numbers, the airport's strategic placement and its ability to link Wallis and Futuna with the wider region means it sees a continuous stream of travelers passing through.

How to Get Here

Well, the good news is that the airport from Mata-Utu, the capital city, to Hihifo Airport is not so far away. Guests have the choice of taxi, car hire, or public transport to get them to and from the airport.

Parking

The airport also provides parking for the passengers arriving in a private vehicle. But information on the availability of parking and pricing at Hihifo Airport is less clearly defined in available details.

Transportation Price

The price of transportation to and from Hihifo Airport is determined by the mode of travel used, as well as its place of origin. Travelers are encouraged to research and shop around for the best product that suits their needs at a price they can afford.

Terminal Layout

The airport consists of one terminal which services both domestic and international flights. There is very little documentation about the terminal layout and passenger facilities, but presumably it offers everything you need to make your travels as smooth as possible.

Navigate the Airport

Hihifo Airport is a midsized facility which makes it rather easy to navigate. Other initiatives should focus on clear signage and wayfinding within the terminal relating to check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding areas. But it's always wise for travelers to get there early enough in case a test will take too long getting through orientation and they end up missing their flight.

Getting Between Terminals

There are no tales to tell about passengers navigating between multiple terminals at Hihifo Airport as it just consists of a single terminal.

Services and Amenities

Little is known about the services and features at Hihifo Airport. Being a regional airport, however, it will likely provide only essential facilities such as check-in counters and security screening—and maybe some dining and retail options for passengers.

Restaurants and Shops

To meet the needs of passengers passing through the airport, there will be a small number of food and beverage options, as well as some retail outlets.

Security and Customs

Since it is an international airport, it has facilities such as security and customs necessary to cope with both domestic and international passenger travel. Passengers will have to go through normal security and customs screening when leaving or arriving at the airport.

Accessibility

Information on available access features and provision of assistance for Hihifo Airport is not currently available. Those passengers who are disabled or have reduced mobility should contact the airport and their airline beforehand to organize something.

Travel Tips

When traveling to Wallis and Futuna, arrive at Hihifo Airport using these travel tips:

• Give yourself a chance to get ahead: Flying mid-week in the middle of morning or evening rush hours can save lots of time spent at the airport.
• Get there early: Add extra time on top of what you would usually give yourself for check-in, security checks, and customs procedures (for international flights).
• Pack Right: Follow the airline baggage rules and pack only what you need to make things easier at the security checkpoint.
• Research transport: Look up the transportation means and cost to/from the airport.
• Real time: Find out any updates or changes to the flight timetables, airport operations, and security protocols before you leave.

By sticking to these travel tips, you will find that this small gateway airfield of Hihifo Airport can be a delightful way into the wonderful island nation of Wallis and Futuna.