Luggage pileup at Honolulu airport caused by technical issue

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Travelers were urged to arrive earlier at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) after issues caused a messy luggage pileup Monday morning.

Those arriving at the airport’s Terminal One walked in to find tall stacks of luggage at check in. Fliers told NewsNation affiliate KHON2 they were notified of a technical issue with the baggage handling system.

“We hope our luggage is going to get on the right plane with all of this luggage all over the place,” stated passenger, Milene Carineo. “We’re crossing our fingers that they get to Kona on time.”

A statement from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) said, “TSA continues to screen checked baggage at HNL using alternate screening methods prior to the checked luggage being transported on a commercial aircraft.”

The Department of Transportation (DOT) advised passengers to arrive at least two hours early for interisland flights and three hours early for mainland or international flights.

“We do appreciate our guests’ patience as our teams do their best to get flights out on time,” said Hawaiian Airlines in a statement sent to KHON2.

Concerned travelers stated they double-labeled their bags and made sure to clearly mark them as their own so they would be easier to track down if they get lost.

“We have like little pompoms or little colorful things in our luggage to help determine from different ones,” said Sydney Rousso, a frequent flier. “If things get covered or something gets ripped off, you have no control over it.”