HONOLULU (KHON2) — Honolulu Airport is on a list circulating of airports that’ve been told to cut 10 percent of their flights, due to the government shutdown. But the state says it’s applying for a waiver.
At least one airline is already cancelling some local flights. And travelers say all the questions have them feeling uneasy.
Travelers say things are moving smoothly flying out of the Daniel K Inouye International Airport.
“I thought it was gonna really affect everybody, but so far, it hasn’t affected too many people right now,” said Cynthia Costorio, Kalihi resident.
“We’re lucky to get out today I’m pretty sure,” said Martin Strain, Makawao resident. “Looks like the flight’s all good.”
Lucky, because starting Friday, DKI Airport is expected to be one of the 40 across the country that are being forced to cut 10 percent of their flights. The FAA says the cuts are to reduce the pressure on air traffic controllers and ensure flying remains safe during the ongoing government shutdown.
“I don’t understand at why it’s happening,” said Patti Barry, Kona resident. “I thought it was an emergency. In fact, you don’t even allow them to strike.”
Hawaiian Airlines says it’s cancelling just four of its 150 neighbor island flights starting Friday – round-trip flights from Honolulu to Maui and Honolulu to Kona. In a statement, Hawaiian says we know how much our residents and visitors rely on our neighbor island service and will continue to operate a robust schedule.
Hawaiian says its flights between Hawaii and the continental U.S., and international routes will continue.
“That’s small percentage I guess,” said Strain. “But it’d be great to have everything back to normal.”
In a letter to the U.S. Transportation Director, state DOT Director Ed Sniffen is asking that Hawaii be exempt from any flight reduction because, as an island, we are “uniquely vulnerable,” citing the need for delivering cargo and food, our dependence on tourism, and access to medical services.
“It’s especially because I’m facing surgery, so it’s a lot of anxiety, yes,” said Barry.
“My nephew’s gonna take me to Portland, I’m a little recovering from heart surgery,” said Strain.
For the most part, all airlines say they will accommodate any passenger who is affected by any delayed or cancelled flights. Most of them say they will also offer refunds, no matter which ticket you bought. But it is always best practice to check with the details for your specific carrier.
As travelers maneuver their way through uncertainty, they had this message for congress.
“Just get their butt together and do it for the people because you do work for the people and not for your own pocket,” said Costorio.