“We are excited about entering the U.S. market with a destination as special as Hawaii,” said Lee Lik Hsin, Scoot’s CEO. “We look forward to connecting our two communities which are both known for their rich multi-cultural heritage.”
Singapore-based low-cost carrier, Scoot landed its first US flight at Daniel K. Inouye International (HNL) Airport in Honolulu yesterday (December 19), operating the first direct route from Honolulu to Singapore on the twin-aisled 787 Dreamliner.
“We are excited about entering the U.S. market with a destination as special as Hawaii,” said Lee Lik Hsin, Scoot’s CEO. “We look forward to connecting our two communities which are both known for their rich multi-cultural heritage.”
The four-weekly service will bring passengers between Singapore to Honolulu, departing at mid-morning and arriving early-morning on the same day (all times local).
“Scoot’s flight today is great news for Hawaii and our local economy,” said Governor David Ige. “The flight is estimated to provide US$79.7 million in visitor spending and US$9.3 million in state tax revenue and help to grow and support our tourism industry. This will also provide our local residents with more opportunities to visit a major Southeast Asia city.”
Located on the tropical island of Oahu, Honolulu is a renowned beach paradise steeped in its unique Polynesian culture and favoured by holidaymakers worldwide.
Yet, there is much more to explore beyond its fame as a ‘sun and surf’ destination according to Kalani L. Kaanaana, director of Hawaiian Cultural Affairs, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.
“Visitors can experience several off-the-beaten trail activities such as stargazing atop Mauna Kea Summit and Observatories, or a short drive to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to experience up close an active volcano. Hawaiian’s regional culinary scene is also thriving–craft breweries are popping up all over.”
Visitors can also visit Kualoa Ranch, the second-largest working cattle ranch in Hawaii, which offers a range of activities from jungle expedition tours to ziplining to a tour of the various filming locations of Hollywood blockbusters. Turtle-spotting is also possible with a short boat ride to Mokoliʻi.