New Federal Rules on International Travel May Revive Hawaii’s Tourism Industry

Tourism industry experts believe that the new federal rules for international travelers could help with Hawaii’s struggling travel industry. Last week, the White House announced its new rules on foreign travelers entering the US. According to the latest rules, foreign visitors can soon travel to the US if they can show proof of vaccination and negative COVID19  tests.

Unvaccinated US citizens and residents can still travel to the US if they are coming from other countries. However, they’ll have to submit two negative COVID19 tests—once before travel and another after arrival.

Hawaii’s International Travelers Down by 97%

Compared to pre-pandemic numbers, the current number of international travelers in Hawaii is still down by 97%. However, some members of Hawaii’s tourism industry are optimistic that the new federal rules will bring back international travelers.

Hawaii currently requires a single pre-flight test and proof of vaccination for travelers from the mainland US. Also, some countries are now welcome in Hawaii including travelers from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Canada, Tahiti, and the Philippines.

Japan is the largest international market for Hawaii as Hawaii’s tourism targets countries with high vaccination rates. This month, Japan has surpassed the 50% vaccination rate.

Managing director of Hawaii Tourism Japan Eric Takahata said that Japan-based airlines and travel sellers are losing $200 million a month.

Japanese Media Sees the New Federal Rules Differently

For Dave Erdman, president of a Pacific marketing company, Japanese media looks at the new federal rules differently. According to Japanese media’s perception, the new policy makes it harder for Japanese travelers to enter the US. It adds an extra step where Japanese tourists need to get vaccinated.

Erdman said that “In the US/Hawaii, the media described the change as ‘loosening’ restrictions for travelers wanting to come to the US. But the Japanese media described the change as ‘tightening’ restrictions”.

Hawaiian Airlines spokesperson Alex Da Silva said that the carrier is “prepared to resume routes once restrictions relax and demand returns”. He added that “The announcement is good news and an important step toward re-enabling travel to the United States—and Hawaii—from additional destinations with a standard set of safety protocols”.