GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $1,678,000 FOR BAGGAGE CLAIM IMPROVEMENTS AT KONA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

For Immediate Release:  February 19, 2009

HONOLULU – As part of the state’s Airports Modernization Plan, Governor Linda Lingle has released $1,678,000 to replace the current baggage carousel in Kona International Airport’s South Baggage Claim Area and construct a new interim baggage claim facility to increase capacity.

These projects are in addition to the $1.8 billion public infrastructure construction plan unveiled by Governor Lingle in December 2008 to stimulate the economy and create jobs.

“Installing a more durable baggage system and increasing capacity will benefit airline staff as well as visitors and kama‘āina arriving in Kona,” said Governor Lingle. “The projects will also contribute to the success of our airport modernization efforts statewide.”

Currently, there is only one available carousel at the South Baggage Claim Area, which is primarily used by Hawaiian Airlines, as well as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines. Between 300 and 500 luggage pieces go through this area each hour of airport operation, which has caused significant wear and tear to the present flat-plate carousel. Downtimes, caused by extensive repairs, have inconvenienced passengers and airline staff.

Of the $1,678,000 released by Governor Lingle, $405,000 will be used to replace the existing baggage carousel. The new carousel will have slightly wider plates and an upgraded motor assembly that is better suited to the heavy baggage load that passes through the South Baggage Claim Area each day. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2009 and be completed in October 2009.

$1,273,000 will be used to construct a new interim baggage claim facility, including the installation of an additional baggage carousel system, located next to the airport’s existing South Terminal building. This will serve as a supplement to the baggage carousel being replaced and allow the airport to better accommodate current and future demand. Construction is scheduled to begin in August 2009 and be completed in December 2009.

The interim facility will be used while a permanent facility is planned and constructed as part of the Terminal Expansion Program at Kona International Airport – currently anticipated to happen within the next five years. The interim facility will be used for other airport purposes after the opening of the permanent facility, where the new baggage carousels will eventually be relocated.

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For more information, contact:

Brennon Morioka
Director, Dept. of Transportation
Phone: (808) 587-2150

Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708

Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043