HONOLULU – Island Air is increasing its flights to and from Lihue Airport. The airline is offering eight daily round trips between Lihue and Honolulu, which is two more than previously available. Island Air returned its service to Kauai last
HONOLULU – Island Air is increasing its flights to and from Lihue Airport.
The airline is offering eight daily round trips between Lihue and Honolulu, which is two more than previously available.
Island Air returned its service to Kauai last March.
The number of daily roundtrip flights between Honolulu and Kahului will double to 16 and flights between Honolulu and Kona will increase from six to 10.
The airline will also add flights to accommodate high-travel days — Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays — and spring-break travel demands.
By the beginning of May, Island Air expects to offer up to 476 flights each week between Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island, compared to the 266 flights per week it currently offers.
“The added flight service is in response to growing demand from our customers and travel partners and also reflects the improved operational efficiencies of the new Q400 aircraft that are being phased into our fleet,” said David Uchiyama, president and chief executive officer of Island Air. “The entire Island Air team remains focused on enhancing the interisland travel experience for residents and visitors, which includes providing more convenient options to island-hop, either for business or to enjoy a weekend getaway or visit.”
Island Air’s first new Q400 began service Jan. 12.
The aircraft is 30-percent faster than conventional turboprops, resulting in shorter flight times, which enables Island Air to operate more flights each day. The airline plans to add up to seven new Q400s by the end of the year and will transition its existing fleet of five ATR-72 aircraft out of service.
