Bill > SB1640

This bill requires the Air Carrier Commission (a state transportation regulatory body) to establish a contract with a qualified charter air service provider to ensure emergency air transportation is available when no other air services exist. The contract will mandate that the charter service provider: respond within 24 hours of being notified, provide a minimum of five emergency flights per month, and maintain all necessary legal certifications and insurance. Any state department or agency can use these emergency air services, but must reimburse the commission for the flight costs according to the contract terms. The Air Carrier Commission will be responsible for developing specific rules about how emergency charter services will be requested and paid for. The bill includes an appropriation of funds (though the specific amount is not specified) to support this emergency air transportation program, with the funds to be administered by the Department of Transportation. While the bill is enacted now, it is set to take effect on July 1, 2050, which suggests this is a long-term planning measure designed to ensure reliable emergency air transportation capabilities for the state.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1640&year=2026