As the partial federal government shutdown continues into its twelfth day, Hawai‘i state officials have recognized the efforts of federal employees who are helping to maintain normal operations at the state’s airports. While airports in other parts of the United States have experienced delays and longer wait times due to the shutdown, Hawai‘i’s airports have avoided significant disruptions.
Governor Josh Green commented on the situation, stating, “We know federal workers and their families are facing uncertainty as a result of the shutdown. The fact that they continue to show up for work at our airports to minimize air travel disruptions is a testament to their character and shows how much they care for their fellow Hawai‘i residents as well as our visitors. The state will do whatever we can to support federal airport workers in Hawai‘i as they continue to provide critical services to air travelers.”
The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation has been coordinating closely with federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Department of Agriculture. According to state officials, there has been minimal impact so far on security screening, air traffic control, and agricultural inspections at airports in Hawai‘i.
Ed Sniffen, Director of the Hawai‘i Department of Transportation, said, “We are fortunate that our local federal employees remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of air travel in the Islands. Hawai‘i’s airports operate as ‘ohana, with state, federal and private sector employees working side by side to serve the traveling public. We are grateful that our federal partners continue to provide the highest level of professionalism to keep our airports operational.”
