URGING THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION AND STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO ENCOURAGE AND FACILITATE THE EXPANSION OF ALTERNATIVE AIRLINE SERVICES THAT UTILIZE SHORT TAKEOFF AND LANDING-CAPABLE AIRCRAFTS AND REQUESTING THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TO CONDUCT A STUDY ON THE FEASIBILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A RURAL AIR SERVICE PROGRAM.

HCR 131 is a concurrent resolution urging the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Hawaii’s State Department of Transportation to support expanded air service using short takeoff and landing (STOL) aircraft, which can operate on shorter runways common in rural Hawaii. It directly affects residents of rural communities like Molokai, Lanai, and Hana, who face reduced service and higher costs for essential air travel. The resolution requests the State DOT to study incentives for STOL operations and directs the Legislative Reference Bureau to conduct a feasibility study on a rural air service program, including funding and partnerships, with a report due by early 2026. This is a non-binding request for action and study, not a new law.