Hawaiian Airlines has announced that it will resume nonstop flights between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport on Hawaii Island. The airline plans to operate three flights from October 29 to November 4, before restarting regular weekly service on November 22. By March 2024, Hawaiian Airlines aims to return to its original thrice-weekly schedule.
The decision to resume flights comes as Hawaiian Airlines looks to meet the increasing demand for travel between Tokyo and Hawaii. The airline initially introduced the Haneda-Kona service in 2016 but temporarily halted flights in March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, with the gradual increase in weekly service from November through March, Hawaiian Airlines hopes to serve its guests effectively.
Hawaiian Airlines is confident that by March 2024, its Japan capacity will exceed the levels seen in the summer of 2023 by 59%. Currently, the airline offers daily service connecting Honolulu's Daniel K. Inouye International Airport with Tokyo's Haneda and Osaka's Kansai airports. Additionally, it provides six-times-weekly service to Honolulu from Tokyo Narita airport and thrice-weekly service between Honolulu and Fukuoka airport. The airline will continue to use spacious wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft for its Japan routes.
While planning a trip to Hawaii, it's important to note that West Maui is currently off-limits to visitors due to recent wildfires. However, the majority of the island, including areas like Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Wailea, Makena, Paia, and Hana, remains accessible. As Hawaii's local carrier, Hawaiian Airlines has introduced two initiatives to support recovery efforts and promote responsible tourism. "Malama Maui" is a resource page for those interested in aiding recovery efforts, while "Travel Pono Maui" is a guide for tourists on how their stay can contribute to the well-being of Maui's residents and communities. Both resources can be accessed through the airline's website.