Less than two months ago, Hawaii’s Island Air accepted its first brand new Bombardier Q400. That moment was a huge turning point for the carrier and a step in the right direction. Not only are the new aircraft faster, quieter, and more efficient, but they’re but they’re much more reliable. This increased reliability also allows a dramatic shift in operations as Island Air nearly doubles flight schedule.
By the Numbers
Currently Island Air operates 266 flights per week. From its base in Honolulu, the airline serves Kahului, Maui; Lihue, Kauai; and Kona, Big Island, at 8, 6, and 6 respective roundtrips per day. Those numbers will nearly double to 16, 8, 10, daily flights, or 476 weekly flights. That’s a far cry from Hawaiian Air’s frequency, but a welcome change regardless.
The schedule changes will be phased in over the course of the next four months, with emphasis placed on high travel days – Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Island Air’s new Q400 are seats 78 passengers, which is about the same number as their current ATR72s. The airline claims they’re also 30% more fuel efficient, produce 30% less emissions, are 30% faster, and produce 2.5 times less noise than the ATRs. Seven of these aircraft are to be phased into Island Air’s fleet by the end of the year.
Island Air Nearly Doubles Flight Schedule Final Thoughts
How much of an impact Island Air’s adjusted flight schedule and new fleet has remains to be seen. However, I am hopeful these changes will further strengthen the now 37-year-old airline. Hawaii needs a viable competitor to Hawaiian Air, and Island Air seems to be our best bet. I am hopeful the airline will succeed with its growth ambitions.
LOVE Island air, just wish they flew more routes between islands other than Ohau. Wish I could take them when I fly over to the Big Island or Kauai from Maui, without having to go through Oahu first. That’s really the only reason I still fly Hawaiian inter-island with their outrageous prices for such short flights. IMO, Island Air is priced better and more enjoyable. Just MHO from someone who flies between the islands about 1-2 times a month.
Eric,
That would be nice, but it took Hawaiian quite a while to build up to that level of direct service. They’re only now starting direct service between the Big Island and Kauai. But, if Island Air is able to thrive, it may become possible one day… And I hope they do!
Hey KH,
That’s great news, not because I ever see myself flying them, but because the stronger they become the more they can possibly impact Hawaiian Airlines’ prices. It’s amazing how much better the Q400 is over the ATR72. I was on an ATR72 once in 2007. It was a Delta Connection flight from ATL-DHN. I was used to regional jets and hadn’t flown a prop since I was a young kid, and I knew a prop would be louder than a jet but man was that plane NOISY. No one wants to fly in a plane where you can’t even hear yourself think. Congrats to Island Air boosting the quality of their fleet and increasing their flight schedule. Maybe they will keep Hawaiian on it’s toes.
It certainly is, KS77! I’m with you, though. I don’t see myself flying them either because I don’t like props (Mahalo Air gave me a deep hatred with their ATR42s), but I really want to see them succeed and give Hawaiian a run for their money!