Airport
Henderson Field (MDY)
Henderson Field (MDY) is a remote public airport on Sand Island in Midway Atoll, a U.S. territory in the North Pacific. About 2,100 km (1,300 mi) northwest of Honolulu, it mainly supports emergency diversions, ETOPS alternates, and limited approved or charter flights serving Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge and the Battle of Midway National Memorial.
Passengers
Luggage
About Henderson Field
Henderson Field is a public airport on Sand Island in Midway Atoll, a remote U.S. territory in the North Pacific. Named for Major Lofton R. Henderson, it was built by U.S. Navy construction battalions beginning in 1942 and served as a naval air station before military operations were reduced in the 1990s.
The airport now operates as part of Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge and the Battle of Midway National Memorial, within Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. It has a single asphalt runway, Runway 6/24, measuring about 7,800 feet, and no control tower or scheduled commercial passenger service.
Located roughly 2,100 km (1,300 mi) northwest of Honolulu, Henderson Field is best known as an emergency diversion and ETOPS alternate for trans-Pacific flights. Access is restricted and requires prior permission, with most movements supporting refuge management, research, contractors, and approved charter operations.
Because Midway Atoll has no road connection to Hawaii, onward travel is limited to local movement on Sand Island and connecting flights. The airport's compact facilities are designed for operational and emergency use rather than conventional passenger traffic.
Terminal Overview
Terminals
Henderson Field does not have separate passenger terminals. Operations are handled through a single small terminal and operations area on Sand Island, used for approved flights, charter arrivals and emergency or ETOPS diversions.
Ground Transportation Services to and from Henderson Field
Transfers
Arrange advance pickup at Henderson Field for approved visitors traveling between the airfield and lodging, work sites or refuge facilities on Sand Island, Midway Atoll.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a driver by the hour for flexible local travel around Sand Island during visits, field work or official business on Midway Atoll.
Car Rental
Independent vehicle use on Midway Atoll is limited and typically arranged in advance through the refuge or operating organization, as conventional rental counters are not available at Henderson Field.
Bus & Group Transfers
Organize van or bus transport for approved groups, research teams or work crews moving between Henderson Field and locations around Sand Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
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