From 26 November, Hawaiian Airlines’ passengers travelling between Hawaii and international and select US mainland destinations will receive a new exclusive collection of in-flight amenities and soft goods carrying a message of sustainability.
Named ‘Ekaha – the Hawaiian name of black coral representing a thriving coral reef, as well as the bird’s nest fern, an indicator of a healthy rainforest – the line developed with Moloka’i-based brand Kealopiko, are adorned with coral and fern patterns, alluding to the deep, symbiotic relationship between the land and sea.
“This collaboration gave us and Hawaiian Airlines an opportunity to design a beautiful collection that also shares a significant mo’olelo (story),” said Jamie Makasobe, co-owner of Kealopiko.
“Embarking on this redesign, we knew we wanted a partner who could help us tell the stories of our island home,” said Avi Mannis, senior vice president of marketing at Hawaiian Airlines. “Kealopiko is a natural fit. Their sustainable production and bold, contemporary design align with our values and complement the flight experience we want to offer our guests.”
International Business Class and JFK/BOS First Class guests will be given a Hawaiian Airlines-branded canvas clutch, available in two different colourways, with the coral print and a coconut shell button. International guests seated in Extra Comfort will receive a natural felt pouch with a wood tag engraved with the ‘Ekaha story.
Guests seated in the Main Cabin on international flights, First Class on North America red-eye flights, and First Class on Papeete and Pago Pago will receive a coral print kraft paper pouch with earplugs, earbuds and a sleep mask in one of three collectible, Hawaii-inspired designs.
All amenity kits feature eco-friendly paper packaging, furthering Hawaiian’s effort to reduce single-use plastics in its fleet and throughout its operations.
“Our partnership with Kealopiko advances our company’s progress to reduce waste, bring sustainability into our cabin, and encourage our guests to join us in taking care of our environment,” added Mannis.
