Flying In Hawaii

One of the biggest challenges of flying in Hawaii is the weather. The islands are located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and are subject to frequent changes in weather patterns. This can make it difficult to plan flights, especially during the winter months when strong winds and rainstorms are more common. Pilots need to be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions and have a solid understanding of the unique microclimates found throughout the islands.

All of the cross country flights that we do require over water flight. Crossing large bodies of water can present significant challenges for pilots, particularly when it comes to safety and emergency procedures. Proper planning, preparation, and equipment are essential to ensure safety and success on these types of flights. Pilots must be well-trained and experienced, with a keen awareness of the unique challenges that come with flying over water.

Another challenge of flying in Hawaii is the terrain. The islands are mountainous and have many steep cliffs and ridges. Pilots need to be skilled at flying in mountainous terrain and be able to read topographical maps. They also need to be prepared to deal with the effects of high altitude on their aircraft and be able to make adjustments to their flight plan as needed.

Yet another challenge of flying in Hawaii is the limited number of airports and landing strips. While the islands do have several airports, many of them are not open to the public. This means that pilots need to carefully plan their flights and ensure that they have enough fuel to make it to their destination. It also means that they need to be skilled at landing on small runways and dealing with the unique challenges of short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations like when operating out of Kalaupapa on the northern part of Molokai. A big consideration, and one that affects us significantly, is the Honolulu Class Bravo airspace that governs where we operate out of. More on this below…

One unique aspect of flying in Hawaii is the presence of active volcanoes. Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, is located on the island of Hawaii and can spew ash and gas into the air, which can affect visibility for pilots. Pilots need to be aware of the location of the volcano and its current activity before planning a flight.

Finally, flying in Hawaii requires a certain level of cultural sensitivity. The islands have a rich history and culture, and pilots need to be respectful of the land and the people who call it home. This means being aware of cultural sensitivities and avoiding flying over sacred sites and areas where people are gathering for traditional ceremonies.