U.S. Department of Transportation to Subsidize Kalaupapa Air Service

Press Release

U.S. Senator Daniel K. Akaka today applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation's commitment to subsidize air service to and from the isolated Kalaupapa peninsula:

"The Kalaupapa community needs and deserves affordable air service to connect with their families and health care providers and for other necessities," said Senator Akaka following a meeting with Kalaupapa residents. "This morning we heard their stories of hardship caused by the high fares and lack of a wheelchair ramp at the airport. Thankfully Secretary LaHood's plan to find a new provider using an Essential Air Service subsidy will make flights more affordable for Kalaupapa residents. I saw the relief in their eyes when they learned this unfair burden will soon come to an end."

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, visiting Honolulu this week, said federal funds will be used to buy a ramp and related equipment to help accommodate patients and residents dealing with disabilities. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will subsidize air service and select an air carrier to service the unique community following a competitive bid process.

"Senator Inouye, Senator Akaka and Congresswoman Hirono brought these air service issues to my attention and I'm pleased we have found a solution to meet the needs of the people," said Secretary LaHood.

Airline prices increased in 2009, and individuals currently pay up to $550 for round-trip tickets to Honolulu from Kalaupapa, Molokai. The DOT's call for bids will include an Essential Air Service (EAS) subsidy, which has the potential to reduce the current airfares by more than 60 percent. EAS subsidies were established and funded by the Congress to address the needs of rural communities like Kalaupapa. The incumbent carrier is required to provide service in the interim and may submit a bid. DOT hopes to have a carrier in place by the summer.

Senator Daniel K. Inouye said: "Yesterday, we talked about the big, massive Honolulu transit project. Today, Transportation Secretary LaHood joined us to address a small, heartfelt issue - the need for reasonable fares and reliable service for the people of Kalaupapa. His announcement and solution were very well received. He is hopeful that by the summer, there will be an air carrier and a subsidy in place, to allow the residents to travel with fairness and dignity."

Congresswoman Mazie Hirono said: "Nobody can speak as eloquently as the residents of Kalaupapa themselves as they asked for reliable and affordable air service to and from Kalaupapa. This morning we heard from them. I am grateful to Secretary LaHood for his decision to use the authority of the U.S. Department of Transportation to address the residents' concern. I also mentioned to Secretary LaHood this morning that should legislative language regarding service to Kalaupapa be necessary in the FAA reauthorization bill, I have been working on such language and can pursue that avenue when the House takes up the bill next week. My goal, which I know is shared by the entire delegation, is that everyone in our island state has access to affordable and convenient air service."

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