Hawai'i is a rough market for airlines, especially those that operate routes entirely within the state. Interestingly, we've recently learned that Southwest purposely loses money in Hawai'i as part of its grander strategy in the islands. … [Read more...] about Southwest Purposely Loses Money in Hawai’i
Travel News
Alaska-Hawaiian DOJ Review Period Expired
The thrice-extended Alaska-Hawaiian DOJ review period expired last night without any action taken by the Department of Justice, paving the way for the two airlines to combine. Additional steps remain before Alaska's acquisition may close; however, this was the largest remaining one. … [Read more...] about Alaska-Hawaiian DOJ Review Period Expired
Mokulele Fails Hawai’i Again
The islands of Lana'i and Moloka'i are dependent on a singular airline for vital transportation the larger islands of O'ahu and Maui for doctor appointments, shopping, visiting family, etc. However, Mokulele fails Hawai'i again, as it continues to struggle with maintenance. … [Read more...] about Mokulele Fails Hawai’i Again
Alaska Air Taps Chef Brandon Jiu
Though we all wait with bated breath to find out the disposition of Alaska Air and Hawaiian Air's tie-up, Alaska Air taps Chef Brandon Jiu for new First Class menus on select routes. At the same time, the airline made further investments in an emerging future aircraft design that, honestly, I'm not so enthusiastic about. … [Read more...] about Alaska Air Taps Chef Brandon Jiu
Frontier is Abandoning Its Hawai’i Dreams
Frontier Airlines had plans. They were going to purchase the long-range Airbus A321XLR and use it to fly international and Hawai'i routes. However, the A321XLR ordered didn't materialize. So, now Frontier is abandoning its Hawai'i dreams - at least for now. … [Read more...] about Frontier is Abandoning Its Hawai’i Dreams
Chase Improves Insurance Coverages
Chase, in my opinion, has some of the best insurance offerings around, especially on their higher-end cards. However, for those with less expensive (or even free) cards, Chase improves insurance coverages, boosting both covered amounts, services, and more. … [Read more...] about Chase Improves Insurance Coverages
Waikiki Hotel Workers Voted to Strike
Hot on the heels of a strike beginning at the Grand Wailea resort on Maui, Waikiki hotel workers voted to strike. Unite Here Local 5 held a strike vote late last week, and an overwhelming majority of affected members voted in favor of a strike, which will be bad news for visitors if an agreement with the union isn't reached soon. … [Read more...] about Waikiki Hotel Workers Voted to Strike
Turtle Bay is Now Live With Marriott
Not long ago, I reported that the Turtle Bay Resort in Kahului was to be acquired by Host Hotels & Resorts, which would then reflag the property a Ritz-Carlton. Well, that time has come, and the Turtle Bay is now live with Marriott. … [Read more...] about Turtle Bay is Now Live With Marriott
Maui One Year Later
It's hard to believe that it's already been one year since raging wildfires consumed Lahaina. The frightening images still seem just as fresh today as they were then. Yet, here we are. So, let's talk about Maui one year later. How are things going, especially as it relates to the visitor industry? … [Read more...] about Maui One Year Later
Grand Wailea Workers are on Strike
Heads up! If you have an upcoming stay at Hilton's Waldorf-Astoria outpost on Maui, know that Grand Wailea workers are on strike! As such, expect delays and disruptions during your stay. … [Read more...] about Grand Wailea Workers are on Strike