TURNWORKS, the company attempting to merge
Hawaiian and Aloha airlines, is promising it will cap interisland
fares at $78 each way for two years with subsequent increases over
then next three years pegged to the consumer price index. Turnworks
revealed the plan in a proposal submitted to the state attorney
general's office, which will decide if the merger can pass an
anti-trust test. A deputy attorney general said the office was no
where near the point of looking at fare structures yet and could
not comment.
THE PROPOSAL ALSO said the new airline would
guarantee Hawaii residents 10% of one-way inter-island seats at $55
or less and 20% of the one-way seats at $60 or less with yearly
increases pegged to the Consumer Price Index. The proposal carries
a loophole, though: The carrier could raise fares to cover costs
such as insurance, fuel and security measures. Frequent flyer
accounts would be protected as well as tickets bought before the
merger for travel after the merger.
THE STATE of Hawaii is spending $59 million to
repair and upgrade its cruise ship ports in Honolulu, Nawiliwili on
Kauai, Hilo on the Big Island and at Kahului on Maui. Most of the
improvements, except for the pier at Kahului harbor, which already
is under construction, are in the design phase and should be
complete in two years, according to Jadine Urasaki, deputy director
of the state transportation department.
SULLIVAN PROPERTIES is offering travel agents a
15% commission on stays of four nights or more at six condominium
properties in the west Maui area. The commission is good on stays
booked through April 30. Call (888) 669-0324.
THE ASTON KAANAPALI SHORES on Maui finished a
$5 million lobby renovation. The condominium resort offers a fourth
night free through June 30 on rates from $175 a night to $395 a
night.
THE PACIFIC BEACH HOTEL in Waikiki is giving
guests one seafood and prime rib dinner for two and a fourth night
free through March 31 when they book a package at the hotel through
Pleasant Hawaiian Holidays.