Once a Marine, always a Marine: Teague brings the same standards of excellence and safety to his job every day

October 30, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

When employees at the Portland Operations Center see the flag in front of their building at half mast, they know to pause for a moment and reflect—and to thank their coworker Mike Teague.

A former Marine, Teague leads up a small team of volunteers who keep Horizon in compliance with federal and state flag protocols. “This is our way of honoring those who served and gave everything for our country,” he says.

Mike Teague, Horizon Air Quality Assurance Auditor

It was while serving his country that Teague honed his skills in aircraft maintenance. He worked primarily on F-4 Phantom fighter jets and KC-130 tankers in locations around the world, including in the Persian Gulf during the first Gulf War.

Teague has been with Horizon Air for 26 years—starting as a technician, then lead technician, along with being a temporary supervisor on various maintenance projects. In his current job as quality assurance auditor, he spends about 50 percent of his time overseeing Horizon maintenance operations. The rest, he’s traveling to various repair stations and inspecting vendors to ensure they’re in compliance in repairing Horizon’s aircraft parts.

He’s great at his job, but at the same time, misses having a wrench in his hand.

“As corny as it sounds, I still sometimes miss being a mechanic because I’ve always enjoyed working on planes and getting the job done.” Teague says. “It’s a satisfying feeling when you work all night to get a plane fixed and then you’re there to see it getting loaded with people and taking off.”

But being an auditor and overseeing all functions of the Maintenance & Engineering processes allows him to see a broader scope.

“I see the the tremendous pride and dedication that everybody has in their jobs, striving to make our little airline the best it can be,” he says. And he is an ambassador for Horizon to our more than 300 repair vendors worldwide, ensuring compliance. “So, I don’t get to fix airplanes anymore, but that same level of job satisfaction is still there.”

Once a Marine, always a Marine (Teague served for 14 years) he brings the same standards of excellence and safety to his job every day. Founding the flag team is just one example of that.

Teague remembers the exact date that he took on the flag duty, because it was Sept. 11, 2012. There, of course, was a proclamation to lower the flags that day in remembrance of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, but when he arrived at work, he saw they weren’t at half-staff. So, he took it upon himself.

That was almost 8 years ago, and he continues to perform the duty today.

Travel Pono on O‘ahu: Shop Local, Eat Local

October 29, 2020
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
5 min read

Each purchase at a local business during your vacation in Hawai‘i is an investment in our people, the land, our culture and all that makes our islands so special – from tastemakers reshaping cuisine to creatives sharing their native roots through art and design.

As a fellow Hawai‘i business, we proudly partner with entrepreneurs to share their ingenuity and pa'ahana (hard work) with our guests – from our in-flight meals, entertainment and products to the design elements of our aircraft cabins and crewmember uniforms.

Local shops that are critical to sustaining our island economy have been particularly hard hit by the pandemic. As Hawai‘i welcomes travelers back and businesses reopen their doors, we encourage kama‘āina (residents) and visitors to experience the eclectic products, flavors and services of our partners and employee-recommended stops featured in this series. As always, we remind our guests to wear a face mask and follow each establishment’s specific health and safety guidelines.

Please kōkua and wear a mask when exploring our island's local shops, restaurants and communities.

O‘ahu, the most cosmopolitan of our archipelago’s four major islands, boasts an array of quirky neighborhoods decorated with both new and long-time businesses. One district with a charming personality is Kaimukī, a community nestled just mauka (mountainside) of Waikīkī that is known for its niche businesses, mom-and-pop shops and collection of diverse eateries.

Coffee enthusiasts can indulge themselves in Kaimukī's cafe scene, which includes The Curb Kaimukī, a source of specialty brews and coffees that you can smell from a block away. The shop boasts a wide beverage menu of hand-crafted drinks and is take-out only to keep its patrons safe.

Not into coffee? Bubble tea lovers often satisfy their cravings at Cowcow’s Tea. The tea house has implemented easy-to-follow health and safety protocols, such as shields at the order station, mask and social distancing requirements, as well as contactless payment and to-go options. Even with restrictions, customers feel welcome with Cowcow’s pink-painted interior, fun Japanese-influenced style, and an Instagram-worthy rose photo wall.

The rose wall at Cowcow's Tea is a popular backdrop for customers. Don't forget to bring a reusable bubble tea straw, if you have one!

While walking Kaimukī’s narrow streets, shoppers will pass several one-of-a-kind stores, including da Shop: Books + Curiosities, a homey, independent bookstore carrying a curated selection of national bestsellers and an array of local subjects and authors. And just around the corner is ‘Awa + ‘Ōlena, a boutique beauty and wellness shop offering natural products made from Hawai‘i-sourced ingredients and jewelry created in-house by the shop owner. Customers can browse the shelves of these businesses with peace of mind, as both require masks and have reduced their capacity for social distancing. Prefer to shop from home? They both also offer a wide product selection online.

'Awa + 'Ōlena is open to all who wear a mask, and is where shoppers can find the store owner's popular local jewelry line.

Just west of Waikīkī and Ala Moana, travelers will find the neighborhoods of Ward and Kaka‘ako, two modern, mixed-use downtown Honolulu communities. Both are known for walkable streets lined with brick-and-mortar shops, and many craft breweries, cafes and eateries popular with kama‘āina.

Social distancing sidewalk markers help neighborhoods like Kaka‘ako maintain a safe and healthy environment for both residents and visitors.

Need to scratch that poke itch? Our longtime partner Foodland offers some of the freshest fish in town at its Kaka‘ako restaurant Redfish Poke Bar by Foodland. Located in SALT at Our Kaka‘ako, patrons indulge themselves in innovative seafood dishes and poke bowls available for dine-in (group size dependent upon local restrictions) or to go.

Guests of Redfish Poke Bar by Foodland must have a temperature screening before being seated and diving into its menu.

Next to the restaurant is one of the most unique store locations of our retail partner, Kahala. The fun and laid-back boutique, which also reduced its capacity and requires masks, offers an array of aloha wear designed by an in-house art team, a special Collector’s Edition series that highlights heritage prints, and special collaborations by famous local artists.

While local businesses have enforced new health and safety protocols, shoppers can still expect to receive the same warm aloha and hospitality.

And if you find yourself in the neighborhood on a weekend, a stop at the Kaka‘ako Farmers Market is a must. The market houses scores of vendors that range from handmade home décor to produce harvested at farms throughout O‘ahu. Since the pandemic, the market has expanded to include new businesses that have struggled to maintain traffic at their storefronts due to state-imposed restrictions. Masks are mandatory, vendors have reduced the number of shoppers allowed in their tent at one time, and select stands with high traffic require guests to follow social distancing markers and stay in designated lines.

As we all continue to adapt to the pandemic, we encourage everyone to be aware of the state’s latest COVID-19 travel requirements and O‘ahu restrictions. To learn more about how Hawai‘i businesses and the visitor industry have readied themselves to welcome guests back safely, visit www.makaukau.com.

HawaiianMiles members and Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^® cardmembers can earn even more HawaiianMiles when supporting our local merchant and travel partners. *Click here to learn more***.

Pack your bags and cruise through your pre-travel COVID-19 test on your way to Hawai‘i

October 28, 2020
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
3 min read

Preparing for your flight to Hawai‘i from the Bay Area and searching for a convenient pre-travel COVID-19 test?

Look no further.

Hawaiian Airlines guests now have exclusive access to our first drive-through, pre-travel COVID-19 testing service near San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Travelers who take the shallow nasal swab test from the comfort of their vehicle on their way to the airport or anytime 72 hours before departure and receive a negative result will be exempted from the state of Hawai‘i quarantine and be able to enjoy our gorgeous beaches, trails, waterfalls and activities from the moment their arrive.

“We want pre-travel testing to be as convenient for our guests as ordering and picking up a cup of coffee on the go,” said Avi Mannis, senior vice president of marketing at Hawaiian Airlines. “Our drive-through service lets our guests focus on getting ready to enjoy Hawai‘i.”

Our guests can visit www.schedulecovidtesting.com to book an appointment for the Droplet Digital PCR tests, a “gold standard” COVID-19 screening offered by Worksite Labs that meets state of Hawai‘i guidelines and is available to travelers of all ages, including children. Test results, which are guaranteed within 36 hours for $90, or $150 for day-of-travel express service, should be uploaded to the state of Hawai‘i’s online Safe Travels form.

“Star Navigator” mural by Nikila Badua

Guests driving onto our San Francisco site – just 10 miles from SFO – will be greeted by a “Star Navigator” mural by O‘ahu-born artist Nikila Badua and curated by the African American Art & Culture Complex. The panel adorning our mobile lab was inspired by modern-day female navigator Kala Tanaka, a wayfinding educator at Maui’s Voyaging Society.

“Kala's father is a master navigator and was one of the original crew members of the legendary Hōkūle‘a voyaging canoe,” explains Badua, who now resides in San Francisco. “In 1976, the Hōkūle‘a traveled from Hawai‘i to Tahiti without modern instruments, which was close to being forgotten in Hawai‘i. This image of her shows Kala measuring where she needs to go using her hand. The thumb lays across the horizon while the fingers stand vertical as you align your markings with the stars.”

Stay tuned for additional Hawaiian Airlines drive-through testing locations planned near Los Angeles International Airport and our other U.S. gateway cities.

Meanwhile, click here to learn more about Hawaiian’s testing options, including our Vault Health mail-in test available to travelers anywhere in the United States, as well as other providers.

Researchers at Harvard say masks, air circulation & cleaning make air travel safe

October 27, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

Alaska’s robust 100+ layers of safety—from mandatory masks, to more space and enhanced cleaning—are making travel safe, according to a new study released by researchers from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Recent findings from the report indicates air travel “is as safe or substantially safer” than the routine activities “such as grocery shopping or eating out.” Similar studies also support aircraft are among the safest indoor environments in the world.

These new insights by the researchers at Harvard indicate multiple layers of precautions like mask-wearing, diligent cleaning protocols and advanced ventilation and filtration systems can effectively reduce the risk of COVID-19 disease transmission during air travel.

Interview with Dr. Leonard Marcus on APHI Phase One Report:

How to reduce the risk of COVID-19 while flying:

Fly healthy and with your mask on.

No mask? No travel. When you have to face the world, we want to make sure we’re all doing it safely—and with each other in mind.

According to the study, the universal use of face masks were the most essential way to reduce COVID-19 transmission during air travel. For the safety of everyone, as part of Alaska’s Next-Level Care, guests must complete a health agreement and comply with our mask policy to fly.

The vast majority of flyers follow our strict mask policy. Guests who refuse to wear masks on board or at the airport, will be banned. So far, more than 145 individuals have been suspended from flying with us for a period of time for failing to comply with this necessary safety precaution.

Clean, filtered air plus advanced ventilation and filtration are critical.

The risk assessment from this study, among other studies, reinforce air filtration and ventilation systems are a crucial part of lowering the risk of COVID-19 transmission on board.

Every Alaska aircraft is equipped with airflow systems that are comparable to what’s found in hospitals. We operate using HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters that remove more than 99% of airborne particles (even the size that causes COVID-19). The study by the researchers at Harvard showed passengers and crew members breathe a combination of 50% filtered and 50% fresh outside air every 2-3 minutes, which is consistent on Alaska and Horizon Air flights.

The air onboard is filtered not just in flight, but also during boarding and while guests exit the plane.

Every Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air aircraft is equipped with HEPA filters.

Additional processes to prioritize the disinfection of high-touch surfaces between flights.

EO alcohol-based, relaxing French lavender-scented sanitizing wipes are available to guests on all Alaska and Horizon Air flights.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, the study found airlines’ disinfection processes dramatically increased in frequency and intensity, reducing the indirect spread of infection through contaminated surfaces on aircraft.

Between every flight, dedicated cleaning crews clean the most critical areas of our aircraft using a high-grade EPA disinfectant.* We’re also using electrostatic disinfectant sprayers, which emit a safe, high-grade EPA cleaning solution that sanitizes high-touch surfaces, such as overhead bins, armrests, tray tables, seatbelts, lavatories and more.

Once complete, our procedures are thoroughly audited by a crew leader, who signs and validates a cleaning certificate. Alaska’s cleaning procedures are in line with guidelines and cleaning recommendations from manufacturers and exceed CDC recommendations.

Read the full comprehensive report by visiting npli.sph.harvard.edu.

5 ways to make your trip to Hawaii as smooth as possible using Pre-Clear

October 23, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
8 min read

Alaska Airlines President Ben Minicucci and Alaska employees visited Hawaii on the very first day of the pre-travel testing program last week to experience it first hand and to meet with local officials.

Hawaii began to welcome visitors back to its beautiful islands in October with its pre-travel testing program. The new program allows anyone entering the state who tests negative for COVID-19 in advance to proceed without the current 10-day mandatory quarantine.

Update Dec 3: All travelers to the islands must have a negative test result BEFORE beginning the final leg of their trip. Anyone without a negative test result PRIOR to departure must quarantine upon arrival. Learn more The negative test result must be uploaded onto Safe Travels prior to departure or printed out prior to departure and hard copy in hand when arriving in Hawai‘i.

We had to see for ourselves what the first wave of travel to Hawaii was like for our guests and employees. President Ben Minicucci and other Alaska employees packed their bags, tested negative for COVID-19 and flew to the Aloha State on the very first day of the program last week. Below are their tips to make your journey as smooth as possible.

“With all the enhanced safety measures we’ve put into our Next-Level Care, when Alaska guests are ready to fly, we’re ready to take them where they want to go,” said Minicucci. “As more of our guests fly to Hawaii, it’s important to take care of one another and the islands by visiting responsibly, wearing your mask and following the state’s safety guidelines.”

1. Get tested.

Getting a negative COVID test before traveling to Hawaii is key to enjoying the islands without sitting in a hotel room to quarantine.

“Once you find out you’re COVID-negative, the goal is to hold onto that status as long as possible before your flight—you can always run to the store to buy sunscreen when you land,” said Alaska photographer Ingrid Barrentine.

Within 72 hours of flying to Honolulu, Minicucci and others were tested for COVID-19 using Alaska’s testing providers, which offer rapid and standard COVID-19 testing — these options are available by appointment in-person, at-home, or drive-thru. If you’re making plans to travel to Hawaii, follow all travel guidelines and use a testing provider approved by the Hawaii Department of Health. Only test results from trusted partners, completed within 72 hours of travel, will be accepted in order to be exempt from the 14-day mandatory quarantine.

Steps to enter Hawaii with your test results:

Step 1: Go to Hawaii’s Safe Travels website: https://travel.hawaii.gov/#/
Step 2: Create an account and add your trip information. Within 24 hours before your flight, log back into your account to complete the state’s health questionnaire and upload a PDF of your negative COVID-19 test from one of Hawaii’s trusted testing partners. When all of that information is complete, you will receive a QR code.
Step 3: When you get off the plane and enter the gate area, your temperature will be automatically taken by a thermal screening image camera.
Step 4: Be prepared to show state officials your QR code by clicking “trips” in your Safe Travels account. You may also need this QR code when you check into your hotel.

Watch how to get your QR code.

If you must quarantine, most hotels just give out a one-time use room key to ensure visitors don’t leave their rooms until their test results come back negative, or the mandatory time period is complete. This policy is in place to protect the islands from the spread of COVID-19 and is a good reason to get tested before you travel!

As part of our standard flight check-in process no matter where you fly, every guest must complete a health agreement. For your safety and of those around you, the agreement confirms you have not exhibited COVID-19 symptoms in the past 72 hours, have not been in close proximity to someone who has tested positive, and will bring and wear a face covering in the airport and on board.

2. Mind your wingspan at the airport.

Most airports around the country have stepped up their safety protocols to ensure the safety of travelers and employees. At any Alaska Airlines touchpoint, we’re giving you the tools you need to feel confident about your travels such as the ability to print your bag tags, touch-free using our mobile app. You can also expect our countertops to be topped with plexiglass shields and the floors and walls to be covered with social distancing signage as a reminder to stay six feet apart.

“This was my first time flying since March and I noticed a huge difference in the amount of safety precautions since COVID happened,” said Barrentine. “Everyone was wearing a mask and sanitizer and plexiglass dividers are everywhere you look.”

3. Enjoy the flight.

Cleanliness and safety have always been our top priority, but the next level involves techniques that reduce the already low risk of onboard transmission inflight such as enhanced cleaning procedures, mandatory masks and limiting the number of guests on our flights and blocking seats through January 2021.

Through January 6, 2021, middle seats are blocked and we’re capping the number of guests on our flights. Gate agents may reassign seats to create more space between guests or to seat families traveling together, which may include the use of the middle seats. There can be occasions where extra space cannot be guaranteed due to unforeseen changes such as reaccommodating guests from a previously canceled flight. If you’re uncomfortable with the distance between you and others on your day of flight, please speak with a customer service agent about your options.

4. Welcome to Hawaii.

Upon arriving at Hawaii’s airports, it might feel similar to going through airport customs in Mexico or Europe. Anticipate long wait times for the arrival screening process, which vary by island.

Speed up the process: Hawaii Pre-Clear has arrived! To help speed things up for you and your fellow travelers, Alaska Airlines guests are now able to pre-clear at the departure gate, and bypass airport screening upon arrival in Hawaii. Learn more.

Please be sure you have uploaded your test results (PDF file) to your Safe Travels account and completed the mandatory online health questionnaire prior to your arrival.

5. Travel responsibly.

With more people flying to Hawaii again, the islands are asking visitors to malama, to “care for” each other, for local communities and for the land. As visitors, you’re encouraged to keep one another healthy by following safe health practices like always wearing a mask in public, and to experience the destination on a deeper level—to buy local, learn about local history and culture, and give back to Hawaii.

“We love the concept of malama, which means to care for the land and to care for the people,” said Minicucci. “Caring is such a big part of what Alaska’s all about. It’s part of our core values and that’s why we’re going to take great care as we start flying more people to the islands and will work closely with local officials to make sure we’re doing the right thing and are great stewards of travel to and from Hawaii.”

During their visit, Minicucci and Alaska employees did their part to help protect and preserve Hawaii for the future by planting native trees and learning the history of the land at Gunstock Ranch on Oahu’s North Shore, in collaboration with the Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative and the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach.

“Every time I travel to Hawaii I am inspired by the amazing natural beauty of the islands. But we are each responsible for ensuring that beauty sustains for our children, grandchildren, and the people of Hawaii,” said Alaska’s vice president of external relations, Diana Birkett Rakow. “We’re conscious as an airline about our impact, and responsible for reducing it. And if each of us as individuals brings a reusable bottle, plants trees, and supports local business, we will come out of this pandemic stronger together.”

Fly Alaska to Hawaii.

Alaska currently flies to each of the four major Hawaiian Islands with twice daily service from Seattle. On Nov. 1, Alaska’s nonstop service to Hawaii will resume from Portland, Oregon; San Jose, California; and San Diego, California. Hawaii service will begin from Anchorage, Alaska and Los Angeles on Nov. 20.

Book your next trip today!

Alaska Airlines and Microsoft are making travel a little greener—see how you can reduce your carbon footprint

October 22, 2020
Sustainability
Alaska Airlines
3 min read

Alaska Airlines and Microsoft will fly more sustainably thanks to the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) supplied by SkyNRG to cover Microsoft employee travel on the routes they fly most. Microsoft has ambitious sustainability goals, including a commitment to be carbon negative by 2030 and remove all historical carbon emissions by 2050. We’re grateful for the opportunity to support them on this path.

SAF is produced from sustainable resources, including feedstocks and waste oils, and is an important way for the aviation industry to reduce CO2 emissions on a life cycle basis.

“As an airline, we are responsible for reducing the negative environmental impacts of air travel in our community and the communities where we operate. To do that, we’re focused on ongoing efforts to improve our operational efficiency, including growing our use and the market for SAF,” said Diana Birkett Rakow, vice president of external relations at Alaska Airlines. “We believe deeply in the transformational benefits of air travel. It’s what connects people—and helps communities worldwide grow and thrive. We know to continue to deliver these benefits, we must operate sustainably.”

We’re excited about this milestone and remain committed to a long journey of reducing carbon emissions, including creating a marketplace for SAF, especially here in the Pacific Northwest. More than a decade ago, we were one of the first airlines to demonstrate the use of SAF in passenger travel, and by managing a fuel-efficient fleet and using technology to make flight paths most efficient, we have reduced its intensity target of Greenhouse Gas emissions by 16% since 2012. But there is a lot more work to do, and many partners on this journey, from airports like our home hub SEA to California hubs and research institutions.

So today, we also announced a two-year investment with Washington State University to support additional research at the WSU-PNNL Bioproducts Institute to advance the mid- and long-term development of SAF as an economically viable option, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.

What if I don’t work for Microsoft, but want to offset your carbon footprint? Good news! Travelers can invest in carbon offsets from our new partner The Good Traveler, which is then invests in carbon reduction projects that restore the climate balance. Since the inception of the program, more than 667 million miles have been flown and with the help of The Good Traveler – who also partners with airports from SEA to SFO and beyond – and 229 million pounds of CO2 has been removed from the air through funding projects like planting trees, protecting habitats, composting waste and using renewable energy.

Travel Pono with Us (and Our Nonprofit Partners)

October 21, 2020
blog
Hawaiian Airlines
11 min read

In the months leading up to the launch of the state of Hawai‘i’s pre-travel COVID-19 testing program, our airline and many local businesses invested a lot of time and effort to prepare to safely welcome more guests.

We implemented enhanced cleaning procedures at every travel stage, added a new health form to our check-in process, began offering our guests convenient pre-travel testing options, and more. And while we’ve adjusted our services, we still fly with the same award-winning ho‘okipa (hospitality) we’re known for.

We appreciate our guests’ understanding and cooperation observing our new airport and flight protocols as we all share a responsibility to keep each other safe. As Hawai‘i’s hometown carrier, we are also reminding everyone arriving on our islands to travel pono during this new era of exploration.

What does travel pono mean? Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, director of community and cultural relations at Hawaiian Airlines, explains, “Pono, like ‘aloha’, embodies many important meanings. When we specifically say travel pono, we are asking others to travel responsibly and thoughtfully. We are ready to welcome our guests back, but we first ask for their kōkua [help] in taking the necessary steps that protect these islands and preserve its culture, natural resources and communities.”

Our new “Travel Pono” blog series encourages guests to travel responsibly and help them understand their role during these unique times. To kick it off, we asked some of our nonprofit partners to lend their thoughts on what travel pono means to them, and share their wisdom in caring for our island home.

Protect the Coral Reefs

Words from Erica Perez, program manager at Coral Reef Alliance – Island of Hawai‘i

Coral reefs are incredibly important in Hawaiian culture and provide food, protection and income for the people of Hawai‘i, and they have had quite a break from human impacts the last few months. But as kama‘aina and visitors alike begin to adventure back into the underwater world, the Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) encourages everyone to tread lightly and treat these important ecosystems with respect and aloha.

A pair of swimmers snorkeling along the reefs of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oʻahu.

Coral reefs are living animals, so if you’re out snorkeling be sure to take safety precautions, follow all local guidelines, and never stand on corals or touch any marine life. Make sure to wear reef-safe sunscreen, or even better, minimize sunscreen use by wearing a rash guard or sun-protective bodysuit. Also, be mindful of any toys or rubbish, and don’t let waves wash items into the ocean.

Photo credit: Coral Reef Alliance

Coral Reef Alliance volunteers collecting water samples on the Island of Hawai‘i in an ongoing research effort to preserve Hawai‘i's delicate coral reef ecosystems.

While the islands have missed welcoming visitors during these trying times, we have had a rare opportunity to gain a better understanding of how oceans change when human-use decreases. We continue to work around the world to address the biggest threats to coral reefs—overfishing and coastal pollution—and help corals adapt to climate change. On Maui, our organization is focused on restoring degraded stream beds to reduce the amount of sediment entering the marine environment and smothering coral reefs. On Hawai'i Island, we partner with local communities to reduce the amount of wastewater runoff. Visitors can learn more about this important work and support it by visiting coral.org or hawaiiwaiola.com.

Trek the Trails Safely

Words from John Leong, CEO of Kupu

Hawaiʻi is truly a unique place, known the world over for our culture of aloha. But our islands’ limited size requires us to be mindful about protecting all that makes our home so special, and this beckons an understanding of the importance of acting pono — or doing what is right and fair to all.

Photo credit: Kupu

Kupu's workers trek to both trafficked and remote areas of the Hawaiian Islands to care for the land and its native species.

Kupu, Hawai‘i’s leading conservation and youth education nonprofit organization, has worked since 2007 to steward people and preserve Hawai‘i’s land. Here are our tips on how to travel pono when exploring our islands’ trails and outdoors during the pandemic:

Carry your mask with you. We share the trails with other people, and to keep each other safe and protected during the pandemic, it’s best to carry a mask in your daypack in case you come in the vicinity of other people.
Pack out what you packed in. Whatever you bring to a beach or park, take it back to where you are staying and dispose of it there; don’t overflow the public rubbish cans. Leave a place better than you found it. If you see something that’s not supposed to be on the sand or in the water, remove it.
Respect what is closed. Some of Hawai‘i’s outdoor attractions are still closed due to the pandemic. Please heed these closures as those areas take a regenerating break.

Photo credit: Kupu

Kupu workers overlooking a scenic area while working on a restoration project. The nonprofit's work spans state-wide, with restoration projects taking place on every Hawaiian Island

Learn about the culture. Find ways to truly learn about where you are. (Waimea Valley on the North Shore of O‘ahu is a good start for visitors!) I also recommend volunteering during your stay. Several nonprofit organizations and eco-tours will allow you to immerse yourself through life-changing service while giving back. Check our website for opportunities as well.
Hike only on marked trails and prevent the spread of invasive species. Hawai‘i is home to endemic and native flora and fauna vulnerable to invasive species. Staying on trails prevents erosion, invasive seed spreading, and of course, prevents you from getting lost. Remember to also clean your outdoor gear and boots before you pack your bags, leave your hotel, and enter and exit a trail.

Reduce, Reuse and Be Pono

Words from Rafael Bergstrom, executive director of Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i

Sustainable Coastlines Hawai’i (SCH) is a local nonprofit working to inspire communities to care for our coastlines, but our mission expands globally — which means that anyone can be a part of it. Hawai’i is a unique and beautiful place with extraordinary culture, coral and marine ecosystems, mountains, and streams. All of these are interconnected — from the wildlife to the people — and this means that all of our actions matter in protecting this place we love.

Photo credit: Rafael Bergstrom/Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i

Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i volunteers huddling for a group photo after a cleanup event on Moloka‘i, hosted prior to the pandemic.

Traveling pono means understanding this connectivity, respecting, and acting with care in every step we take. As you and I return to exploring this incredible Island Earth, it is important to remember that the places we go to are also the homes of other people and creatures.

In Hawai’i, we see the growing impact of consumerism as plastics wash up on our shores, coming from both our own home and afar, and impact our islands' marine life. Education on how to stop plastic pollution at the source is what leads to change; this is where you can make an impact. Before you leave, pack a reusable water bottle, your own utensils and bags, and bring them with you wherever you go. These daily actions by all of us can change the way business is done and prevent plastics from polluting our oceans.

Photo credit: Rafael Bergstrom/Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i

Common single-use items found last year during Sustainable Coastlines Hawai‘i's annual beach cleanup on Moloka‘i.

You all can be part of the SCH ʻohana by following along with us on Instagram and Facebook and our website. We also encourage you to sign up for our Clean Beaches Start at Home movement and share your stories of how you are reducing plastic use. Actions in your own life, from anywhere in the world, can help protect Hawai’i’s coastlines from being covered in plastic. Mahalo for traveling with care and love for this wonderful place we call home.

Mālama our Land and Waters

Words from Ulalia Woodside, executive director, The Nature Conservancy, Hawai‘i

While COVID-19 continues to negatively impact our health and economy, we have, at the same time, seen some benefits to nature from reduced traffic in our parks and other outdoor areas. In June, honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) were documented nesting on Bellows Beach on O‘ahu for the first time in decades because the campground was closed due to the pandemic, and August saw the hatchlings of this threatened species emerge. On Maui, researchers have observed more fish in Molokini’s waters due to less commercial boat traffic. And on Kaua‘i, we have seen a rebound of native vegetation on our trails, and a reduction in backcountry rescues. This opportunity to see nature rebound gives us a new perspective on what sustainable tourism could look like.

Photo credit: Alison Cohan/The Nature Conservancy

A pair of birders exploring the Waikamoi Preserve on Maui.

The Nature Conservancy has been working in Hawai‘i for more than 40 years to protect the lands and waters on which all life in these islands depend. From our deep experience, we have become attuned to the pulse of our forests and reefs, which harbor plants and animals that exist nowhere else on Earth. With the knowledge gained nearly a half-century, combined with recent observations during this unprecedented time, we offer the following tips on how to stay safe and preserve the nature you have come to see and enjoy:

Have a light footprint. Seek ways to limit or offset carbon emissions resulting from your travel to the islands and your activities while visiting. Learn about what we and our partners are doing to sequester carbon in Hawai’i.
Avoid high-traffic times at crowded sites. Large crowds scare off wildlife, can damage habitat and are less enjoyable.
Read signs at hiking trails and beaches and follow their guidance. Stay on authorized trails and avoid areas where access isn’t allowed. This is to safeguard you from hazardous conditions and to protect our unique wildlife and natural areas.
Give wildlife—such as sea turtles, native birds and monk seals—space. These are wild animals that may act unpredictably, so keep a safe distance.
Use water wisely. All of our fresh water comes from rain and mist captured by our native forests. Learn about our work to protect watersheds throughout Hawai‘i.
Tend to your trash. Animals can suffer by eating package wrappers or plastics left behind (plus it’s unsightly!). Remember to bring a bag so you can carry trash securely until you can place it in proper waste receptacles.
Hawai’i is steeped in culture and tradition. Take time to read the interpretive signage at parks and other outdoor attractions. Balance your nature excursions with visits to cultural sites such as Ulupō Heiau, Puʻu o Mahuka Heiau or Keāiwa Heiau on O‘ahu. Visit GoHawaii.com for more cultural activities to add to your list.
Seek volunteer opportunities to learn more and give back to this special place. Volunteering deepens your connection with the people and places you came to visit, creating memories and helping Hawai‘i maintain its natural and cultural beauty.

Mahalo (thank you) for your efforts to mālama (take care of) our precious islands, and enjoy your visit! Learn more at nature.org/hawaii.

Hawaiian Airlines Welcomes Back Boston and New York Travelers Looking for Winter Getaway

October 21, 2020
releases
Hawaiian Airlines
4 min read

HONOLULU – Hawaiian Airlines, Hawai‘i’s hometown carrier, will reinstate its long-awaited East Coast flying in December with twice-weekly nonstop service between Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and thrice-weekly service between HNL and New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

At the same time, Hawaiian will resume daily nonstop service between HNL and Long Beach Airport (LGB), offering guests access to its entire 13-city U.S. mainland network. The state of Hawai‘i last week began exempting travelers from its 14-day quarantine with proof of a negative COVID-19 state-approved test within 72 hours of the final leg of departure.

Hawaiian will also bring back nonstop flights between Kaua‘i’s Līhuʻe Airport (LIH) and Los Angeles and Oakland, and between Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG) and San Diego and San Francisco, utilizing its narrow-body Airbus A321neo aircraft.

“We’re pleased with increased demand for travel to Hawai‘i, and we’re excited to once again offer our East Coast guests the convenience of our nonstop flights as we welcome them to the islands with new health and safety measures,” said Brent Overbeek, senior vice president of revenue management and network planning at Hawaiian Airlines.

To view a full schedule and purchase flights, please visit HawaiianAirlines.com.

As a state of Hawai‘i trusted testing partner, Hawaiian is offering guests departing from any of its U.S. mainland gateway cities a mail-in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) saliva test online through Vault Health. The test kit, which is available for travelers of all ages including children, will be express mailed overnight to guests who will self-collect their sample with assistance from a testing supervisor in a video call. The kit is express shipped overnight to a lab, which will process and analyze the sample and provide travelers their results electronically within 24 hours of receiving the sample.

Hawaiian’s “Keeping you safe” enhanced cleaning includes frequent disinfecting of lobby areas, kiosks, and ticket counters, electrostatic aircraft cabin spraying, plexiglass barriers at staffed airport counters, and sanitizer wipe distribution to all guests. The carrier requires all guests to complete a health acknowledgement form during the check-in process indicating they are free of COVID-19 symptoms and will comply with the company’s updated mask policy for the entirety of their journey.

All travelers to Hawai‘i or flying between the islands must follow the state’s travel procedures and complete its online Safe Travels Hawai‘i form.

About Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian^® has led all U.S. carriers in on-time performance for each of the past 16 years (2004-2019) as reported by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Consumer surveys by Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and TripAdvisor have placed Hawaiian among the top of all domestic airlines serving Hawai‘i.

Now in its 91st year of continuous service, Hawaiian is Hawai‘i's biggest and longest-serving airline. In 2019, Hawaiian offered nonstop flights between Hawai‘i and more U.S. gateway cities (13) than any other airline, along with service connecting the islands with Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa and Tahiti. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hawaiian is offering an adjusted schedule of daily flights within the Hawaiian Islands, and between Hawai‘i and the U.S. mainland as well as Japan.

The airline is committed to the health and safety of its guests and employees and has reinforced enhanced cleaning procedures across its business. While the experience may be a little different, the authentic Hawaiian hospitality remains unchanged. Additional details on how Hawaiian is keeping guests and employees safe can be found at HawaiianAirlines.com/KeepingYouSafe.

Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: HA). Additional information is available at HawaiianAirlines.com. Follow Hawaiian’s Twitter updates (@HawaiianAir), become a fan on Facebook (Hawaiian Airlines), and follow us on Instagram (hawaiianairlines). For career postings and updates, follow Hawaiian’s LinkedIn page.

For media inquiries, please visit Hawaiian Airlines’ online newsroom.

Experts say airplanes are among the safest indoor environments in the world

October 21, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
5 min read

Is it safe to fly on airplanes during the pandemic? Yes, according to science.

While we understand everyone will travel when they’re ready, we’re pleased to share that a recent expert study has shown the transmission of COVID-19 on airplanes to be nearly non-existent (even when seated next to someone).

Mask-wearers are at near zero risk of being exposed to the virus.

According to the most recent study of aircraft air quality conducted by the United States Department of Defense (DoD), even if every seat is occupied on an aircraft, travelers who are wearing a mask are at 0.003% risk of being exposed to the virus.

The DoD study, which simulated a packed plane using mannequins—both with and without masks seated around the cabin—released 180 million particles into the air (the equivalent of 300 to several thousand coughs) to mimic the amount needed to transmit the infection. The results showed only 0.003% of airborne contaminants reached the breathing zones of those wearing a mask.

The DoD research also concluded it would take at least 54 hours of sitting next to someone with the Coronavirus to be exposed to an infectious dose. Currently, Alaska’s longest nonstop flight is 6 hours and 46 minutes from Boston to San Francisco.

Aircraft air filtration systems help reduce the risk onboard.

As part of Harvard’s Health Aviation Initiative, current research recommends taking a multi-layered approach (like Alaska is doing) to minimize the risk of infection, such as:

Wearing masks and practicing good hand hygiene.
Health agreements and/or screenings to exclude symptomatic people from travel.
Using advanced ventilation and filtration systems in airports and on aircraft.
Cleaning high-frequency touch surfaces on aircraft between flights such as tray tables, seatbelts and armrests as well as high-touchpoint areas in airports like check-in kiosks and countertops.

Alaska’s Next-Level Care includes over 100 ways to make you feel safe and confident while traveling, from enhancing our cleaning measures to offering sanitizing wipes and touch-free travel options and so much more.

Every Alaska aircraft is equipped with air flow systems that use HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters—the same kind of filters used in hospitals—that remove 99.9% of infected air particles in the air. Air flows from the ceiling to the floor and creates completely new air in the cabin every six minutes on every flight. There is a full exchange of cabin air with outside and HEPA-filtered air every 2-3 minutes.

Very few COVID cases have been linked to air travel.

According to insights from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), nearly 1.2 billion passengers have traveled since January, in that same period only 44 cases of COVID-19 were reported in which transmission is thought to have been associated with air travel. Even if 90% of those cases were unreported, the risk is 1 in 27 million.

*IATA graphic published on Twitter, see IATA’s original tweet.*

As for the low number of confirmed cases, IATA’s findings, combined with joint research conducted by aircraft manufacturers Airbus, Boeing and Embraer point to aircraft airflow systems as the reasoning, limiting the spread of viruses by controlling the movement of particles in the cabin.

Airflow systems like HEPA filters, and the natural barrier of the seatback and downward flow of air, plus high rates of air exchange reduce the risk of airborne disease transmission on board. The addition of mask-wearing also adds a further and significant extra layer of protection, which makes being seated in close proximity in an aircraft cabin safer than most other indoor environments.

Some of the ways our Next-Level Care is making travel safer:

Mandatory masks
No mask? No travel. Per Alaska Airlines policy, a cloth face mask or covering is required for the duration of your flight, including boarding and deplaning. This is for the safety of all guests and employees.
HEPA filters
Alaska Airlines has one of the newest fleets in the country, which ensures our aircraft have the latest filtration technology in use. Every aircraft we operate is equipped with HEPA filtration systems that are 99.9% effective or greater in removing infected air particles, including viruses like COVID-19, from the cabin air. The air flows from the ceiling to the floor and creates completely new air in the cabin. There is a full exchange of cabin air with outside and HEPA-filtered air every 2-3 minutes and 100% fresh air every 6 minutes.
Electrostatic disinfectant sprayers & enhanced cleaning
We’re using electrostatic disinfectant sprayers, which emit a safe, high-grade EPA cleaning solution that sanitize surfaces (overhead bins, armrests, tray tables, seatbelts, lavatories, etc).
No change fees. Ever.
That’s right, we’ve sent change fees on a permanent vacation. Your peace of mind is always top of mind, which is why we’re permanently eliminating change fees. Fare differences may still apply.
Complimentary hand-sanitizer wipes
We partnered with EO products to provide hand sanitizing wipes that are 99.9% effective at killing germs.
Touch-free options
To help create more distance between guests, we’re providing our agents with the ability to scan a boarding pass from six feet away—if the conditions are just right. And, with the Alaska Airlines app guests can print their boarding pass(es) at airport kiosks touch-free from their mobile device. Learn more.
Social distancing stickers
To better allow for personal distancing, boarding procedures have been updated so guests board by row numbers in smaller groups from the back to the front.
Plexiglass shields
Plexiglass shields are being installed in all stations throughout our network. The shields will be placed at multiple touchpoints, including the ticketing and customer service counters, the gate areas and our Lounges.
Learn more about how we’re making it safe to travel on alaskaair.com.

From a plane to a helicopter employee Terri goes above & beyond the mountains to help an Alaska guest

October 20, 2020
Stories
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

Last year, Terri Gamble-Potter arranged for a helicopter to deliver a delayed bag to a guest who had arrived in Anchorage from the East Coast on his way to a remote area outside Talkeetna, Alaska.

“Knowing that logistics can be challenging for delivery to a remote location, I researched options and was able to have the bag driven to Talkeetna and then airlifted directly to the guest,” says Gamble-Potter, who has been an Anchorage-based customer service agent (CSA) since 1983. On a video of the helicopter’s approach, the guest enthuses: “That’s my freakin’ bag. … Thank you, Alaska Airlines. How ’bout that, huh? That’s service—customer care!”

Terri Potter, Customer Service Agent, 36 years

On another occasion, when a film crew had a tight connection through Anchorage on their way to Nome, she accompanied their checked luggage through security and arranged for a ramp agent to grab it the minute it was cleared so that he could race it to the aircraft.

Gamble-Potter is dedicated to providing excellent service. If someone’s bag is lost, she’s determined to find it. And she not only helps direct guests at baggage carousels, she also assists travelers with offloading their bags.

“Success in service comes from having empathy for people, and follow-through, and doing the very best you can for them,” she says.

Throughout her career at Alaska, she has worked in positions ranging from reservations to the ticket counter to training, as well as bag-gage claim, and she says that Anchorage CSAs are “a very dedicated and caring group of people.”

Gamble-Potter, who was previously a travel agent, joined Alaska Airlines because airline salespeople calling on the travel agency were always talking about how wonderful their jobs were, and how great Alaska Airlines was, and how it was like a family, she says. “I felt the airline had the same values I did, and I thought, ‘I’ve got to work there.’ ”

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

What is important to you at work? Giving 100%. We have a responsibility to help each other as co-workers, and to do things safely, and also to put ourselves in the guests’ shoes. I love everything about my job, including being a cheerleader for colleagues and for customer service.

What do you like to do outside of work? I was born and raised in Alaska, and I love living here and being active in the out-doors. I have cruised the Inside Passage and explored other areas of this beautiful state. Outside Alaska, I have traveled to wonderful destinations such as Portugal and the East Coast, and I was even on the first flight from Anchorage to Honolulu on Alaska Airlines. I enjoy organizing community service and volunteering with charities. Each September, my family hikes in Yosemite National Park in support of the Histio Cure Foundation.

What’s most important to you in life? My husband, four children and five grand-kids, who all reside in Alaska.

KUDOS FROM TERRI’S CO-WORKERS

“Terri goes above and beyond for guests. She is a baggage expert and is always there to help new employees learn. She shows compassion to our guests, and is a valuable and important part of our airline family.” — Misty V., CSA Manager, Anchorage

“Terri puts a smile on everybody’s face. She turns a difficult situation into a posi-tive one. She always has positive things to say. She does what she does, not be-cause she is trying to impress anyone, but because that’s just who she is.” — Nathan H., CSA Station Supervisor, Anchorage

“I can go to Terri if I need anything, and she knows exactly where to go so we can help guests out.” — Duane G., Ramp Service Agent, Anchorage

“Terri is passionate about her family, her friends and her airline guests, and that is why she excels in her job.” — Dana S., CSA (retired), Anchorage

Mandy praises flight attendants, says “they are my true heroes in this pandemic”

October 16, 2020
Stories
Ali Garbino
3 min read

You’ve heard the term “walk a mile in my shoes.” Mandy Mundy, onboard product & services senior specialist, is a shining example of that. Although she traded flying the skies as a flight attendant for a job behind the scenes, she makes it her mission to continue to walk in the shoes of Horizon Air’s flight attendants, supporting them in their jobs.

“Everything I learned from all my experiences flying set me up for the role I have now,” Mundy says. “I work for an incredible group of flight attendants that remind me every day the reason I am here,” she says.

Mundy, who has been with Horizon for 15 years (12 years as a flight attendant) makes it her mission to listen—a lot. She’s always looking for ways, large and small, to make inflight processes better for her flying colleagues.

“Flight attendants can go weeks, if not months, without seeing their inflight leaders. We are always observing for opportunities to improve their work and work environment based on the data we receive from their feedback,” she says.

Those that work with Mundy know that she spends as much time with flight attendants as she can. You can regularly find her in the PDX Village and attending as many recurrent ground school classes that she can, which she finds incredibly valuable.

“We have had a lot of great discussions. I am given the opportunity to explain the ‘why’ behind our decisions,” Mundy says.

An example of Mundy’s commitment is when we brought on the E175 aircraft and there were differences between the Q and E galleys so mock galleys were created. She took it upon herself to provide over 20 flight attendants one-on-one training on the jet. She helped film videos to explain service expectations, and often stayed long hours to ensure the training was in place to make our employees successful while aiming to deliver award-winning service to our guests.

“No one had to tell Mandy what needed to be done. She knew the destination needed to be reached and found a path to get there. She truly is a Pathfinder,” said Matt Prainito, VP of Horizon Air station and inflight operations.

Leading the way to help others is a theme in Mundy’s life. A self-described horse-lover, she founded a nonprofit organization for mounted search and rescue. She also recently welcomed a baby girl to her household.

Mundy truly loves her job, because she loves people, especially the flight attendants she supports.

“They are incredible, stepping up to the task at hand and willing to adjust to everything that keeps coming at us as we navigate COVID-19.,” says Mundy. “My heart goes out to all those that have essential roles—but flight attendants, they are my true heroes in this pandemic.”

Hawaii welcomes you back and to malama (care for) the Aloha State

October 14, 2020
Destinations
Alaska Airlines
4 min read

Hawaii is eager to welcome visitors to paradise. Starting Oct. 15, Hawaii’s pre-travel testing program will allow anyone entering the state who tests negative for COVID-19 in advance to bypass the current two-week mandatory quarantine (details below).

Test or no test, it’s important to visit safely and thoughtfully. Everyone is invited to experience the destination on a deeper level—connecting with the community, its culture and taking care of each other and the land itself.

Malama: take care of yourself and Hawaii.

Malama, meaning “to nurture” or “care for,” is a core value of the Hawaiian culture, and it relates to preserving the land and taking care of all those living there as well. As tourism starts to recover, the islands encourage travelers to be open-minded and respectful of Hawaii’s beauty and leave with a better understanding of what it means to care for the earth, each other and ourselves.

“We believe our visitors care about perpetuating the uniqueness of this place,” explains Jay Talwar, chief marketing officer at the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau (which is part of the Hawaii Tourism Authority). “If even a small portion of Hawaii travelers took part in such activities, the effect would be enormous.”

Here’s how you can help:

Fly to Hawaii with either a negative COVID-19 state-approved test or prepare to quarantine for two weeks upon arrival. Learn more.
Follow the state’s recommendations to stay safe while in the islands (wear a mask, social distance etc.).
Be alert at all times in or near the water, don’t take the sea for granted. Avoid turning your back on the waves. If you or others in your party are not an experienced ocean swimmer, select beaches with lifeguards.
Exercise good-judgment when hiking in the islands like carrying essential gear, check the weather and be watchful that you only enter lands that are open to you and respect the landscape and its history.
Seek experiences that enhance your knowledge of natural and cultural history. Try booking a tour to hike hillsides to learn about Hawaii Island’s volcanoes or the history of local sugar cane farming on Maui and more.

Fly to Hawaii

Starting Oct. 15, Hawaii will allow travelers from out-of-state to proceed without the 14-day quarantine if they test negative for COVID-19 before they arrive in the islands.

Travelers who are five years of age and older must be tested for COVID-19 within 72 hours of your departure flight to Hawaii. Only test results from trusted testing partners approved by the Hawaii Department of Health will be accepted.

Everything you need to know before you go to Hawaii

Guests can enjoy a safe and relaxing flight to the islands thanks to Alaska’s Next-Level Care, which has more than 100 different ways we’re preventing the spread of COVID-19, including mandatory masks, enhanced cleanings between flights, electrostatic disinfectant spray and more.

Alaska is offering you convenient and reliable testing options.

COVID-19 testing options for Alaska Guests

We’re making it simple and easy for our guests by providing testing options that guarantee turnaround times for results within the state’s required 72-hour timeframe. All tests meet the requirements of the State of Hawaii’s pre-travel testing program.

We’re partnering with Carbon Health to offer rapid COVID-19 testing in pop-up clinics — starting in Seattle on Oct. 12, 2020, and expanding in the coming weeks as we resume nonstop service to Hawaii from other cities on the West Coast.
We’re also working with Bartell Drugs to offer PCR-based COVID-19 testing at select locations in Seattle, with guaranteed results within 72 hours.

Learn more about flying to Hawaii here.

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