Makani Kai Air Charters, a subsidiary of Schuman Aviation Company Ltd., will use nine-seat Cessna Grand Caravans to provide service between Kalaupapa and Honolulu.
The two year period of subsidized service will begin at a rate of $932,772 the first year and $923,509 during the second year.
“I am pleased to announce that as a result of the extensive efforts on the part of Secretary LaHood, Kalaupapa will have available, to patients and residents, thru air service subsidized by the federal government. In March, I invited the Secretary to meet with the residents of Kalaupapa and to hear their concerns. He not only listened to their pleas, he committed to action. Now patients can travel to Honolulu to receive much needed medical care and treatment without having to set aside an exorbitant amount of money for airfare. The people of Kalaupapa and Hawaii owe a great debt of gratitude to Secretary LaHood,” said Senator Inouye.
“I commend Secretary LaHood for securing air transportation for the residents of Kalaupapa following our meeting with community members in March,” said Senator Akaka. “For too long, members of the Kalaupapa community have been unfairly burdened with rising ticket prices, infrequent flights, and inadequate services for residents with disabilities. Residents of this historic community need and deserve reliable air service to connect with their families and access necessities including vital doctor appointments and medication. I congratulate Makani Kai and the residents of Kalaupapa on their new partnership.”
“Today’s announcement is a tremendous boost for the residents of Kalaupapa. I attended the meeting in Honolulu last spring where Secretary LaHood pledged to Kalaupapa residents his intent to provide this isolated community with quality reliable air service at a reasonable rate. I commend Secretary LaHood for living up to this commitment by issuing today’s order,” said Congresswoman Hirono, member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “Makani Kai Air Charters currently provides charter flights for visitors to Kalaupapa. Now, with significant federal support, the company will expand and provide daily air service to Kalaupapa. This is especially critical for residents to access medical services, conduct business, or visit their families.”
"We are very pleased with the selection of Makani Kai and we feel that the Kalaupapa community will benefit greatly from their service," said Glenn Okimoto, Director of the Hawaii Department of Transportation. "Essential air transportation is a critical need for this remote location, especially in emergencies or natural disasters, and we will work to ensure that the transition is as seamless as possible."
See the original article at: KHON2 Developing Stories
