May 1, 2008 - Aloha Interisland Cargo

Click here to listen to this address.

"The recent decision by Aloha Airlines to discontinue its cargo operations is very disappointing.  While there may be some short-term delays in service, Hawai`i's economic resiliency will overcome these challenges. 

My Administration has been working to identify other alternatives for the transportation of goods between the islands.  Our state agencies are also collaborating with county governments and the private sector.

We are confident that interisland cargo services will be covered by other air and sea carriers.

We are, of course, concerned for the nearly 300 employees and their families. To assist, we have again activated our multi-agency Rapid Response Team.  Led by the Department of Labor and Industrial Relations, the team has begun meeting with affected employees to help in obtaining unemployment and medical benefits as well as job placement opportunities statewide.

For more information, visit www.hawaii.gov/labor/aloha."