Southwest launches first mainland nonstop service to Hilo in three years
Key Points
- 1Southwest Airlines is launching nonstop service connecting the US mainland directly to Hilo, Hawaii.
- 2This new route ends a three-year period during which Hilo International Airport lacked any direct mainland connectivity.
- 3The service restores a critical travel link to the Big Island's eastern side, aiming to boost local tourism and accessibility.
- 4The carrier confirmed the route launch on Friday, with specific flight schedules expected to be announced shortly.
Southwest Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its Hawaiian network by initiating nonstop service between the continental United States and Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the Big Island. This new route marks the first time Hilo has received direct mainland service in more than three years, restoring a critical link for travelers and the local tourism economy.
The carrier confirmed the launch plans, though specific operational details regarding the originating mainland city and frequency are expected soon. The re-establishment of this nonstop connection underscores Southwest's commitment to increasing accessibility across the Hawaiian Islands, particularly to secondary markets like Hilo that rely heavily on inter-island and limited direct routes. This move is anticipated to boost passenger traffic and competition in the region.
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