Brush fire near Kahului Airport burns 11 acres; forced temporary closure of runways

Update: 3:25 p.m., May 28, 2025

An estimated 11 acres of brush burned in a fire on fallow agricultural land near the Kahului Airport Wednesday morning, May 28, 2025.  The fire was first reported at 10:18 a.m., and was brought under control shortly after at 11:39 a.m.

Smoke from the incident briefly forced the closure of runways at Kahului Airport and area roads along the east side of the airport to allow firefighting operations to be conducted safely.  

The fire occurred in the fields east of the airport, on the side closest to the heliport.  

Firefighters from the County and the State worked to contain and extinguish the fire.  Conditions on scene included winds blowing at 10-15 mph.  

No injuries or damages were reported.  The cause of the fire remains under investigation.  

Responding units included: Engine 10, Hazmat 10, Tanker 10, Engine 1, Tanker 14, a Battalion
Chief, State of Hawaiʻi Airport Firefighters, Tankers from Alpha Construction and Mahi Pono. 

Crews concluded their response at 3:10 p.m.

Update: 11:05 a.m., May 28, 2025

Firefighting crews have put out active flames near the Kahului Airport, Runway 2. The state Department of Transportation reports that flight have resumed and travelers should check with their airlines for any flight changes.

Update: 10:47 a.m., May 28, 2025

The Maui Emergency Management Agency is reporting response to a brush fire near Kahului Airport on Maui. The active fire is in the area of Haleakalā Highway and Lelepio Place. First responders are on scene. Motorists are asked to avoid the area to allow crews room to work.