Molokai residents looking to get home hit with lengthy flight delays

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Many Molokai residents trying to fly home on Mokulele Airlines were hit with lengthy delays Monday, but they say it’s nothing new.
Scores of people flew to Oahu over the weekend for the 2024 Molokai Hoe Canoe Race.
When it was time to head back to Molokai, many passengers were left stranded at Honolulu’s airport.
Some waited more than six hours for a flight that’s only 45 minutes.
The lengthy delay has left Molokai residents frustrated, especially those who had to get home in time for other appointments.
“People have doctor appointments, hospital appointments, whatever. This has got to change for all of the people of Molokai,” said Julie Lopez, who was traveling from Honolulu to Molokai.
Lopez said she had a 1:50 p.m. flight, but it was changed to 6:30 p.m.
This new round of long delays comes after a turbulent summer for the airlines.
In August, the airline grounded its newest fleet for several days due to mechanical problems and enlisted the help of air cargo providers.
“I’ve had this situation before where I’m traveling from the mainland, and they say your flight has changed, but sometimes it’s earlier, and I miss my flight and don’t get home,” said one Molokai resident.
As the only commercial air service in Lanai, many were left frustrated that the problem isn’t being solved faster.
However, several Mokulele customers said service has slightly improved since the fleet was partially grounded in August, and this is the first time since then that their flight has been delayed.
Residents can also take a ferry to Maui, but ticket prices went up 60% for Hawaii residents adults last month.
Hawaii-based Pacific Air Charters has also been exploring a new route between Honolulu and Molokai, but it’s still in the planning phase.
After a long day of waiting, it’s another reminder that Molokai travelers are at the mercy of an airline with no competition.
Hawaii News Now reached out to Mokulele Airlines for a response but have not yet heard back.
Copyright 2024 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.