Honolulu Airport Enhances Passenger Transport with Electric Trams

The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) is modernizing passenger transport at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) with the addition of three recent electric transit trams to its renowned Wiki Wiki Shuttle service. The trams began service on February 15, 2026, supplementing the existing fleet of Wiki Wiki buses and offering a sustainable transportation option for domestic passengers.

A Legacy of Speed: The Wiki Wiki Shuttle

The “Wiki Wiki” name, meaning “extremely fast” in Hawaiian, has been associated with efficient airport transportation in Honolulu since 1962. Originally launched with the airport’s new terminal, the service briefly faced economic challenges but was reinstated in 1967 due to strong passenger demand. The service’s name even inspired the creation of WikiWikiWeb in 1994, a precursor to Wikipedia [1].

New Electric Trams Offer Eco-Friendly Travel

The new electric trams will operate along the same route as the Wiki Wiki buses, transporting passengers between gates C and G, and Terminals 1 and 2. Passengers can board the trams with their carry-on baggage on the third level. The trams operate daily between 10:00 a.m. And 6:00 p.m. [4].

Tram Details and Acquisition

Each Moto Electric tram with a trailer (MotoEV Electro Transit Buddy) costs $255,000 and was acquired through the state’s Electric Vehicle as a Service (EVaaS) contract with Sustainability Partners [4]. Sustainability Partners will similarly provide maintenance and servicing for the trams under the EVaaS contract. The trams, assembled in the United States, can accommodate approximately 40 passengers, including one wheelchair passenger [4].

Commitment to Sustainability

“The Wiki Wiki Shuttle is a vital part of daily operations, connecting passengers comfortably between terminals and concourses,” said HDOT Director Ed Sniffen. “Adding these low-cost electric trams improves the airport experience, removing the noise and odor of our old transports and increasing energy efficiency.” [4] The addition of these trams represents a significant step towards modernizing the airport experience and reducing emissions.

Autonomous Shuttle Pilot Program

In April 2024, HDOT also launched a pilot program introducing autonomous electric passenger shuttles, named Miki, to augment the Wiki Wiki shuttle bus service [1]. During the 18-month pilot, HDOT will evaluate ways to increase the efficiency of intra-airport transportation. The Miki shuttles operate between the C and G gates and Terminals 1 and 2, running from 6 a.m. To 10 p.m. Daily [1]. The shuttles are provided by Beep, Inc. [1].