United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
Mokulele Airlines testing electric hybrid planes
One of Mokulele Airlines’ interisland routes will become a test bed for new hybrid electric aircraft.
Mokulele Airlines is working with Los Angeles-based aviation firm Ampaire to pilot a hybrid model on Mokulele’s route between Kahului and Hana.
It will begin by this fall, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reports.
A hybrid electric plane could cut fuel costs by up to 70%, as well as halving typical maintenance costs, said Ampaire product manager Brice Nzeukou.
"With a short flight, it shows off the technology and its benefits. Hawaii’s focus on sustainability also makes it more aligned with our own vision," Nzeukou said.
Electric power is also feasible for Mokulele’s short island hopping routes including the 100-mile flight from Honolulu to Kahului.
A hybrid aircraft provides lower operational costs and the option of more frequent flights, the companies said.
The test aircraft would feature nine passenger seats.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
James Jin: Didatravel’s Journey from China to Global Reach and the Impact of AI on Travel
Darien Schaefer on Pensacola’s Evolution: From Small Town to Global Destination
Florida Tourism’s Next Frontier: Dana Young on Expanding Beyond the Classics
Patrick Harrison on Tampa Bay Tourism’s Resilience and Marketing Strategy
Bubba O’Keefe on Clarksdale’s Vibrant Music Scene
Commemorating Elvis and Embracing Tupelo’s Culture with Jennie Bradford Curlee
Craig Ray and the Expansion of the Blues Trail
Presenting Mississippi’s Cultural Trails with Katie Coats
Dozens fall ill in P&O Cruises ship outbreak
BA suspending all Heathrow to Abu Dhabi flights
Turkish Airlines flight in emergency landing after pilot dies
Unexpected wave rocks cruise ship
Woman dies after going overboard in English Channel