Latest tourism & hospitality news and updates
Hawaii's tourism landscape is about to experience a significant shift as airlines introduce lie-flat suites and true premium economy seating on narrow-body aircraft for flights to the islands. This move is likely to reshape the travel experience, impact award availability, and influence pricing strategies for both airlines and travelers.
United Airlines is partnering with iconic Hawaiian brand Reyn Spooner to offer exclusive amenity kits to business class passengers on flights from the U.S. mainland to Hawaii, launching this month. This collaboration highlights the importance of localized branding in the tourism sector and offers a boost to Hawaiian businesses.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters is facing public opposition to its request to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly at lower altitudes in specific areas across Hawaii. The proposal has drawn over 55,000 public comments, raising concerns about noise pollution, safety, and potential impacts on residents and other businesses.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters' proposal to reduce minimum flight altitudes in certain areas has garnered significant opposition, with over 55,000 public comments received. The debate highlights growing concerns about noise pollution, safety, and the potential impact on residential areas, prompting reflection on tourism regulations and the future of helicopter tours in Hawaii.
Alaska Air Group has appointed Diana Birkett Rakow as the new CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, succeeding Joe Sprague, effective October 29th. This transition marks a significant change in leadership for the airline and will likely impact Hawaii's tourism and business sectors.
Hawaii's coral reefs face significant threats, impacting the state's tourism industry and overall economic health. Efforts to conserve these vital ecosystems are crucial, requiring collaborative action from various stakeholders to ensure their long-term survival and the prosperity of the islands.
Southwest Airlines is considering major strategic shifts, including long-haul international flights and premium airport lounges, according to recent statements by CEO Bob Jordan. These potential changes could significantly impact Hawaii's tourism sector and present new opportunities for local businesses.
Airlines are reshaping the Pacific airspace. While Alaska Airlines is expanding its international network with new routes and promotional fares, Hawaiian Airlines is contracting, discontinuing routes to Asia and the mainland, signaling a shift in the competitive landscape for Hawaii's tourism industry.
Wailea Beach has received accolades as Hawaii's best, including a recent ranking by [Travel + Leisure](https://www.travelandleisure.com/wailea-beach-named-best-in-hawaii-11793138). However, many visitors express dissatisfaction, citing issues that detract from the idyllic experience, potentially impacting the tourism industry and related businesses.
The landscape of affordable air travel to Hawaii is undergoing a significant transformation. Several factors, including shifting airline strategies and fluctuating economic conditions, suggest that the days of ultra-low-cost flights to the islands may be coming to an end, impacting both travelers and the local economy.
Diana Birkett Rakow, currently a senior vice president at Alaska Airlines, will take the helm as CEO of Hawaiian Airlines on October 29, succeeding Joe Sprague. This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time, as the airline works to integrate with Alaska Air Group and navigate the evolving landscape of Hawaii's tourism-dependent economy.
A recent letter to the editor suggests dissolving the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) to restore public confidence in the state's tourism management. This proposal ignites a discussion among Hawaii businesses, prompting them to consider the potential impacts on the state's most vital industry.
Diana Birkett Rakow will become the first female CEO of Hawaiian Airlines, effective October 29th. This leadership transition, facilitated by the Alaska Air Group, signifies a pivotal moment for the airline and underscores the evolving dynamics within Hawaii's aviation and tourism sectors.
Recent updates to Hawaii's Food Safety Code allow pet dogs in outdoor dining areas under specific conditions. This shift presents both opportunities and challenges for local restaurants and the broader hospitality sector, raising questions about implementation and customer acceptance.
Hawaii's tourism industry faces a potential blow as state leaders work to secure the future of the PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua. The tournament, a major draw for visitors, is threatened by a water dispute and the potential closure of the Kapalua golf courses.
Diana Birkett Rakow, currently the Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Alaska Airlines, will take the helm as CEO of Hawaiian Airlines on October 29th, succeeding Joe Sprague. This leadership transition marks a significant development for Hawaii's tourism and business sectors, impacting investors, employees, and the overall economic landscape.
Tourism is a cornerstone of Hawaii's economy, providing numerous jobs and contributing significantly to the state's revenue. However, the industry faces challenges related to sustainability and balancing economic benefits with community impact.
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters' proposal to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly at lower altitudes has drawn significant public opposition, with over 55,000 comments largely against the plan. This potential shift in regulations could dramatically affect the tourism sector and the quality of life for many Hawaiian residents.
Kailua Beach Park has begun a three-month pilot program implementing nightly closures from midnight to 4 a.m. due to increasing illegal homeless encampments and associated safety concerns. This decision reflects broader challenges faced by Hawaii's tourism sector and local businesses.
Kailua Beach Park has initiated a three-month pilot program for nightly closures between midnight and 4 a.m. due to concerns over homeless encampments, vandalism, and reports of threats. This decision reflects the ongoing struggle to balance public access to recreational spaces with the need for safety and security in the community.