LIHUE — Hawaii’s senators said the agreement between the U.S. and Japan to add more flights between the U.S. and Haneda International Airport in Tokyo could boost the state’s visitor industry. “Increasing the number of flights to Haneda Airport will
LIHUE — Hawaii’s senators said the agreement between the U.S. and Japan to add more flights between the U.S. and Haneda International Airport in Tokyo could boost the state’s visitor industry.
“Increasing the number of flights to Haneda Airport will benefit the American economy, increase consumer choice, and serve to build an even stronger link with our close ally, Japan,” said Sen. Mazie Hirono. “This agreement will provide a welcome boost to the visitor industry for Hawaii and across the country.”
U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz also welcomed the deal.
“Secretary (Anthony) Foxx and Secretary (John) Kerry have worked diligently with their counterparts in Japan to find a way to provide business and leisure travelers more options to conveniently fly between Tokyo and the U.S.,” Schatz said. “Adding more options into Haneda complements Japan’s desire to expand international flights, supports consumers, and aligns with U.S. tourism goals.”
The agreement adds two new flights between the U.S. and Haneda while converting the four existing nighttime flights into daytime flights which will add flexibility and convenience for travelers. In the coming months, air carriers will compete for the right to sponsor the two new flights added as part of today’s announcement.
Currently, there is one direct flight between Tokyo’s Haneda International Airport and Hawaii which flies into Honolulu.
Hawaiian Airlines also congratulated the U.S. government on reaching an agreement with the Government of Japan for expanded access to Haneda International Airport.
“As the premier carrier between Tokyo and Honolulu, we are well acquainted with the importance of strengthening open skies agreements between Japan and the United States,” said Mark Dunkerley, president and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines. “This accord reached will mean increased traffic from Tokyo to points in the United States, which in turn creates American jobs and improves convenience and choice for air travelers.”
