Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
Southwest Airlines is making a bold move into the premium travel market by opening its first VIP lounge at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). This strategic decision signifies a shift in Southwest's approach and provides opportunities for Hawaii's tourism and hospitality sectors.
Hawaii's vital tourism sector faces uncertainty as the federal government shutdown continues, potentially causing flight delays and impacting visitor numbers. The industry needs to proactively implement strategies to mitigate the negative effects and maintain a steady flow of tourists.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea welcomes back Konrad Gstrein as its Regional Vice President and General Manager, a move that signifies a full-circle moment for the hospitality veteran and a potential boost for the luxury tourism sector in Hawaii. Gstrein's return, coupled with the resort's festive plans, suggests a focus on elevating guest experiences and reinforcing the resort's premier position.
The recent merger of Hawaiian Airlines with Alaska Airlines marks a significant shift in Hawaii's business landscape, ending an era of independent local airlines and raising questions about the future of the state's travel and tourism industry. This transition presents both challenges and opportunities for local businesses, investors, and professionals.
Flair European Steakhouse has added a touch of European sophistication to the vibrant Kaka'ako neighborhood in Honolulu, known for its dynamic arts and culture. The new steakhouse, with its focus on fine dining and live entertainment, is poised to become a significant player in the evolving landscape of Hawaii's hospitality industry.
Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines experienced disruptions due to a global Microsoft outage, marking the second tech failure for Alaska in a week and the first for Hawaiian Airlines. The incidents resulted in flight delays and check-in complications, impacting travel for businesses and tourists alike.
A global Microsoft Azure outage on October 29th disrupted operations for both Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, affecting websites and online check-ins. This resulted in longer wait times for passengers at airports, highlighting the critical reliance on cloud services for the travel industry in Hawaii.
The Paradise Cove Luau, a cornerstone of Oahu's tourism scene for nearly half a century, is set to close its doors on New Year's Eve. This closure marks the end of an era, impacting the local economy and reflecting evolving trends in the hospitality industry, as the land will be redeveloped into a new dining, retail, and entertainment complex.
Starting in 2026, visitors to Kihei beaches on Maui will be charged a $10 parking fee, a move designed to alleviate overcrowding. This initiative has sparked debate, with concerns raised about its potential impact on visitor behavior and local businesses.
Hawaiian Airlines is under new leadership as the integration with Alaska Air Group progresses, marking a significant transition in Hawaii's aviation sector. Diana Birkett Rakow will assume the CEO role, succeeding Joe Sprague, as the merger faces new operational hurdles and opportunities.
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have reached a significant milestone in their integration process, receiving a single operating certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This critical step streamlines operations and marks the successful integration of key operational elements for both airlines.
The Road to Hāna, a jewel of East Maui, faces challenges due to visitor misbehavior, prompting a community group to escalate its dispute with the state. This escalating conflict highlights the delicate balance between tourism, infrastructure, and the preservation of natural resources.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea has appointed Konrad Gstrein as its Regional Vice President and General Manager, marking his return to the luxury resort. This move reflects a positive outlook for the tourism sector in Maui and highlights the continued importance of experienced leadership in the hospitality industry.
Hawaiian Airlines' iconic 'HA' flight code is retiring after nearly a century, marking a significant transition in the airline's history. This change, stemming from the Alaska Airlines takeover, impacts the airline's branding and operational procedures, with implications for Hawaii's tourism and travel sectors.
The imminent issuance of a single operating certificate by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) marks a significant milestone in the merger of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. This consolidation will reshape Hawaii's aviation landscape, impacting local businesses, travelers, and the overall economic environment.
Alaska Airlines is significantly expanding its West Coast network, including new routes to and from Hawaii. This move is poised to impact Hawaii's tourism sector and present both opportunities and challenges for local businesses.
The Four Seasons Resort Maui in Wailea is seeking approval for a $16.3 million renovation project, slated for discussion at the Maui Planning Commission. This substantial investment signals confidence in Maui's tourism sector and presents opportunities for local construction and related businesses.
Alaska Airlines is significantly expanding its network with 13 new nonstop routes slated to begin in 2026, with a strong focus on the West Coast and increased service to Hawaii. This expansion is poised to impact Hawaii's tourism sector, offering more options for travelers and potentially driving economic growth within the state.
The Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau (HVCB) has announced the appointment of Lori Joy Watanabe as its new Director of Strategy Implementation, effective October 1, 2025. This strategic move underscores HVCB's commitment to balancing tourism growth with community welfare and environmental sustainability.
Maui is reconsidering its controversial plan to phase out short-term rentals, proposing to preserve 4,500 units amidst its designation as a prime destination for 2026. This shift aims to balance the needs of the tourism industry with the concerns surrounding housing availability.