United Airlines Disruptions at East Coast Hub Affect Hawaii-Bound Travelers

Plane landing approach — United Airlines Disruptions at East Coast Hub Affect Hawaii-Bound Travelers | Maui Tom's News

Washington Dulles airport experienced 102 flight delays and cancellations on May 27, primarily affecting United Airlines and regional carriers. The disruptions impacted connections to domestic and international destinations including routes that serve Hawaii travelers. United Airlines and regional partners Mesa Airlines and CommuteAir had 98 delays and 4 cancellations at Washington Dulles on May 27. […]

Major Maui Landowner Reports Revenue Drop Amid Recovery Challenges

Haleakala — Major Maui Landowner Reports Revenue Drop Amid Recovery Challenges | Maui Tom's News

Maui Land & Pineapple saw revenues fall 41% in Q1 2026 due to suspended housing projects, though commercial properties benefited from wildfire-related tenant relocations and improving tourism traffic. Land development revenues plummeted to $257,000 from $2.6 million after the state suspended the Honokeana Homes housing project in April 2025. Commercial real estate stayed stable at […]

Study: Dive Tourism Damaging Coral Reefs Through Tourist Contact

Tropical reef colorful fish — Study: Dive Tourism Damaging Coral Reefs Through Tourist Contact | Maui Tom's News

New research shows recreational divers frequently damage coral reefs through physical contact, adding to existing threats from climate change. Some destinations are implementing stricter diving regulations and artificial reef alternatives. University of Sydney study found divers with cameras and equipment were more likely to touch and damage coral structures. Researchers observed “contagious” behavior where one […]

Hawaiian Airlines Replaces Free Coach Meals with Paid Chef-Curated Menu

Man relaxing in an airport terminal with feet on a rolling suitcase, watching a plane take off outside through the window.

Hawaiian Airlines announced it will end complimentary main cabin meals on most mainland flights starting July 1, replacing them with pre-order meals created by Maui chef Sheldon Simeon. Multiple sources report this marks a shift from the airline’s longtime practice of including meals with tickets, though officials say the change addresses passenger requests for more […]

Maui Council Advances Bill That Could Preserve Thousands of Vacation Rentals

Luxurious hotel atrium with multi-storey balconies, a central lounge, and lush palms.

Multiple sources report that the Maui County Council is considering legislation that could allow thousands of vacation rentals previously slated for phase-out to continue operating through new hotel zoning designations. The Committee on Housing and Land Use voted 6-to-1 in favor of the measure this week, despite opposition from local planning commissions. Bill 88 would […]

Revenue Management Issues Impact Vacation Rental Performance on Maui

Kaanapali Royal Maui — Revenue Management Issues Impact Vacation Rental Performance on Maui | Maui Tom's News

Industry experts identify common operational problems that hurt vacation rental revenue, including poor listing quality and flat cleaning fees that reduce bookings during slower periods. 88% of vacation rental listings have quality issues that hurt their search visibility and booking conversion rates. Poor listing content forces revenue managers to lower nightly rates to compensate for […]

Baldwin Beach Park Hosts Community Cleanup for World Environment Day

Paia Beach looking east.jpg — Baldwin Beach Park Hosts Community Cleanup for World Environment Day | Maui Tom's News

Maui County is organizing a volunteer beach cleanup at Baldwin Beach Park on June 5 from 4-5:30 p.m. The event will include updates on a dune restoration project aimed at reducing erosion and improving shoreline resilience. Volunteers will clean trash and debris from Baldwin Beach Park on June 5 from 4-5:30 p.m. The cleanup includes […]

State Wildlife Division Seeks Resident Input on Axis Deer Population Impact

green sea turtle Maui Hawaii beach — State Wildlife Division Seeks Resident Input on Axis Deer Population Impact | Maui Tom's News

The state’s Division of Forestry and Wildlife is asking Maui Nui residents to complete a survey about how the estimated 26,000 axis deer are affecting their lives and property. The anonymous 15-question survey runs through June 30 to help guide management decisions. DLNR estimates 26,000 axis deer currently live on Maui Nui, causing environmental, safety […]

Memorial Day Ceremony Draws 500+ to Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao

Big Blue — Memorial Day Ceremony Draws 500+ to Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao | Maui Tom's News

More than 500 people attended a Memorial Day tribute at Maui Veterans Cemetery in Makawao to honor fallen U.S. service members. The event featured local dignitaries, veterans, and ceremonies including wreath-laying and recognition of veterans who died in the past year. Over 500 attendees gathered at Maui Veterans Cemetery for Memorial Day ceremonies sponsored by […]

Lahainaluna Foundation Distributes $167K in Student Scholarships Despite Challenges

Beach shoreline with palm trees — Lahainaluna Foundation Distributes $167K in Student Scholarships Despite Challenges | Maui Tom's News

The Lahainaluna High School Foundation awarded $167,000 in scholarships to 54 students and alumni in its 25th year of giving, despite ongoing impacts from the 2023 wildfire and 2026 flooding. Seventy-five scholarships went to graduating seniors and continuing students with support from local donors and businesses. Foundation awarded 75 scholarships totaling $117,500 to 42 seniors […]