A little over two months ago. David Ige put out a plea to the world. “It is not a good time to travel to the islands.”. “I’m asking all residents and visitors alike to restrict travel, curtail travel, to Hawaii to essential activities only” David stated.

David Ige took advantage of a milestone at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) to give the green light to non-essential travel for fully vaccinated residents and visitors. The occasion was the opening of the permanent Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility, which provides a second international entry point in addition to the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. David pointed to the economic benefits international travelers bring to Hawaii. “One daily flight from Japan can generate over $100 million in visitor spending and support 1,200 jobs on Hawai‘i island,” he said.

New U.S. customs area at the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport.

“I think we are all encouraged by what we’ve seen over the last several weeks with the lower case counts,” said David. “Our hospitals are doing better, and we have fewer COVID patients in them. Because of this, it is now safe for fully vaccinated residents and visitors to resume non-essential travel to and within the State of Hawai‘i.” The state continues to seek information from the federal government about new protocols beginning Nov. 8 for fully vaccinated international travelers.

The governor is continuing to work with the mayors and representatives from the visitor industry to shape a clear message for prospective visitors.