Airline to require masks
HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaiian Airlines has announced enhanced policy changes requiring travelers to cover their faces with masks or cloths to combat the spread of COVID-19.
The airline made the announcement Friday and is expected to go into effect May 8.
Passengers must wear masks from check-in at the airport, while riding on the plane up until disembarking at their arrival destination, company officials said.
Young children who are unable to keep a face covering on, or passengers with certain medical conditions that would prevent the use of a face covering are exempt from the policy.
Airport employees and flight attendants already wear masks, officials said.
“Taking care of our guests and employees has always been our primary focus, and these new health measures will help us maintain a safe travel experience, from our lobbies to our cabins, as Hawaii continues to make progress in containing COVID-19,” airline CEO Peter Ingram told Hawaii News Now.
Construction to begin on Waikiki groin project
HONOLULU (AP) — Construction crews are slated to start work earlier than scheduled on a replacement groin in Waikiki since fewer people are on the beach amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Construction is scheduled to start Monday on the new 160-foot-long groin in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel and is expected to take two months to complete.
The $1.5 million project was originally scheduled for the fall, but was moved up because of restrictions on beach activity after Gov. David Ige imposed a statewide stay-at-home order to combat the spread of COVID-19.
The existing groin connected to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel seawall was installed in 1927 to protect the Waikiki beach, but structural engineers have said it is at risk of failing with more than 50% submerged and broken.