Hawaiian helicopter tour operator supports disaster relief efforts
Tourism operations have been paused at Kahului Airport
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has changed its operations from tourism to disaster relief following the ongoing wildfires in Hawaii.
As tourism operations from Kahului Airport have been temporarily paused, the helicopter tour company has been transporting food, water, and medical supplies from the Oahu and Kahului airports to the devastated Lahaina area of Maui.
The operator is working alongside Blue Hawaiian Activities hotel partners, Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association (HLTA), and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA).
“Given that our helicopters can land in just about any terrain, and we have highly trained and experienced tour pilots with extensive knowledge of these islands, this is the best way we can support our community,” said Blue Hawaiian President Quentin Koch. “When a tragedy like this occurs, our team quickly rises to the occasion and their service to the impacted communities is a testament to their unwavering commitment.”
As well as transporting basic supplies, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has evacuated dozens of people from areas that were inaccessible due to road closures.