How do you make an exclusive resort even more exclusive? You make like the Four Seasons Lanai. Why? Because the Four Seasons Lanai launched its own air charter service.
Hawaii’s airline industry has been rocky for the past decade. In that time we’ve seen the closure of Aloha Airlines, the launch, and exit of go!, and the evolution and closure of Island Air. And, these changes likely have caused some anxiety over at the Four Seasons Lanai. Afterall, the airlines are how most, if not all of Lanai’s visitors get there. So I guess it’s no surprise that Four Seasons Lanai decided to take matters into its own hands.
Lanai Air
The Four Seasons Lanai is located on the small island of Lanai. All guests traveling to the island will first need to connect in either Honolulu or Kahului. And, for years now, the only way to connect from Honolulu has been via Mokulele Airlines and Ohana by Hawaiian Air. But now, Four Seasons Lanai guests may choose to fly via the resorts exclusive Lanai Air charter service.
Operating exclusively between the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Lanai’s Lanai City Airport, Lanai Air utilizes two Pilatus PC-12’s. These aircraft, as configured, can accommodate eight passengers and their bags. Charters, though, can be flown with as little as two passengers. The price for a couple? $500 one-way, $1,000 roundtrip.
Looking at the interior of the PC-12, it looks like a nice space to spend 20 minutes. However, legroom space for the seats not around the table looks just as bad as the airlines. But, what you get with Lanai Air that you won’t with the other airlines is convenience and a more intimate environment.
The Lanai Difference
Lanai Air’s two PC-12’s are operated by Mokulele Air, but that’s where the similarities end. Upon arrival at the Daniel K. International Airport, passengers will be greeted at their arrival gate. From there, Lanai Air Ambassadors will escort you to the baggage claim to collect your bags. You’ll then be taken directly to your Lanai Air flight, bypassing security and the busy terminals. And, upon arrival on Lanai, you’ll be greeted by a luxury Sprinter van or SUV for transfer to the hotel.
For return flights, Ambassadors you’re taken directly to your plane from the hotel; no security check once again. Upon arrival in Honolulu, guests will be transported to their departure terminal for agricultural inspection in preparation for their flight home. If you have time to kill in Honolulu, the Four Seasons does operate its own lounge in the Overseas Terminal, which guests may enjoy.
Four Seasons Lanai Launched Its Own Air Charter, Final Thoughts
At over $1,000 per night, the Four Seasons Lanai is a resort for the wealthy. And, with that in mind, Lanai Air is an ideal service for the resort’s clientele. After all, Lanai Air offers an unparalleled level of privacy and convenience for guests of the resort. But $500 roundtrip per person is pretty steep for a 20-minute flight. Especially since flying on Ohana by Hawaiian will earn you (a minute number of) HawaiianMiles. Of course, you could always credit your Ohana flight to codeshare partners like American Airlines.
To make a Lanai Air reservation, call 833.486.8397 or e-mail reservations@lanaiair.com.