Aloha to Aloha Airlines

A fixture in the islands since 1949, Aloha Airlines has apparently reached the end of the line. My brother Steve was one of the first people to take a ride in Aloha's very first jet, a BAC-111, in early 1966, and Bob Kerch, a childhood friend of ours from Ulupalakua Street, later became an Aloha pilot on the HNL-South Pacific route. Many Aloha fliers fondly remember the old days- sitting behind the pilot who was flying with his window open. And the refreshment service: (With dixie cups and can in hand) “Guava juice? Or no guava juice? Guava juice? Or no guava juice?”

They started out with DC-3s, and later used a unique version of the Fairchild F-27. Currently they have a fleet of about 25 737-200s, and lease several 737-700s for their transPacific flights. They will continue their cargo division. (photo taken by Craig, HNL 2003).

HONOLULU - Aloha Airlines said yesterday it will halt all passenger service after today, signaling the end of an airline that has served Hawaii for more than 60 years.

Aloha, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on March 20, was a casualty of fierce competition and rising fuel prices. The airline said it will stop taking reservations for flights after today.

More details:

http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2008/03/31/bankrupt_aloha_airlines_halting_passenger_service/