Aloha,

George Applegate, executive director of the Big Island Visitors Bureau, is asking business leaders and residents to write letters to him regarding the need for more flights to Hilo.

Mr. Applegate plans to use these letters to persuade airlines to fly from the mainland to Hilo and Kona. Because of the recent departures of ATA and Aloha Airlines, some 9,500 seats into Hilo will be lost this summer.

Mr. Applegate says local people want to travel off-island for vacations, and to visit friends and family. Besides tourism, businesses that ship products — especially agricultural businesses — would benefit from more flights. He says Hawai‘i really has to set itself apart from other tourist destinations and show airlines they will have support if they fly here.

He says we are up against some really heavy duty competition, but that he’s not worried. The Big Island has a lot to offer like its rich culture and Kilauea volcano.

The Big Island has the fastest growing population in the state and Puna alone is growing at a tremendous rate. He says folks living here want to know they can travel to the mainland once a year to visit family and friends.

Mayor Harry Kim encourages the community to support Mr. Applegate’s efforts and send letters.

Mr. Applegate encourages anyone who wants a mainland-Hilo flight to write him (Applegate) and tell him why at his e-mail address: bivbhilo@hvcb.org .

He says people can also write him at 250 Keawe St., Hilo, HI, 96720, by May 16.

Please direct any questions about the proposal or letters requested to Mr. Applegate.

Mahalo for your attention to this matter,

Rose Tseng