Honolulu Skyline Rail: Oʻahu’s Transit Expansion, Hitachi’s Role

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Introduction

Honolulu’s Skyline rail system in Hawaii has launched public service on its segment two route, introducing four new stations. The expansion, announced on October 17, 2025, by Hitachi Rail, the City and County of Honolulu, the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART), and the City’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS), links the Daniel K Inouye International Airport and other key locations on Oʻahu.

Expansion Overview

The segment two expansion includes stations at Makalapa Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Lelepaua Daniel K Inouye International Airport, Ahua Lagoon Drive, and Kahauiki Kalihi Transit Center. An event at the Kahauiki Middle Street Transit Center Station marked the opening, including an inaugural train journey from Halawa Aloha Stadium Station.

Impact on Transportation

The new stations aim to improve transport links across Oʻahu. The Makalapa Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam station offers direct access to military bases and surrounding communities. The Lelepaua Daniel K Inouye International Airport station connects travelers and the airport’s workforce to the rail system and features a new express bus route to Waikiki. At the Kahauiki Middle Street Transit Center station, commuters can transfer between Skyline trains and the city’s bus network via a single fare card system.

Future Development

Skyline is claimed to be the first fully autonomous urban light rail system in the US. Segment three, expected to be completed by 2031, will add six stations and further connect Oʻahu’s west side with downtown Honolulu.

Legal and Financial Aspects

In January 2025, Hitachi Rail Honolulu Joint Venture (JV) filed a lawsuit against HART and the City and County of Honolulu, seeking at least $324m in damages for breach of contract and unjust enrichment due to project delays and rising costs. In August 2024, HART awarded a $1.66bn contract to Tutor Perini Corporation (TPC) for the design and construction of the final segment of the Skyline rail transit project. Tutor Perini announced the execution of a contract and receipt of the notice to proceed for the Honolulu rail project in October 2024.

Conclusion

Segment two of Honolulu’s Skyline rail system, including four new stations, has commenced public service. These additions are intended to improve transport links across Oʻahu. Segment three is expected to be completed by 2031.

Company Summary

Hitachi Rail: Announced the launch of segment two of Honolulu’s Skyline rail system.

City and County of Honolulu: Announced the launch of segment two of Honolulu’s Skyline rail system. The City and County of Honolulu is involved in the Skyline project.

Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART): Announced the launch of segment two of Honolulu’s Skyline rail system. HART awarded a $1.66bn contract to Tutor Perini Corporation (TPC) for the design and construction of the final segment of the Skyline rail transit project.

City’s Department of Transportation Services (DTS): Announced the launch of segment two of Honolulu’s Skyline rail system.

Tutor Perini Corporation (TPC): Awarded a $1.66bn contract by HART for the design and construction of the final segment of the Skyline rail transit project.

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