In the Sunday NYTimes today, Mark Dunkerley of Hawaiian Airlines was featured on how he uses the Aloha Spirit, the deep cultural roots of Ohana and Hui in running the airlines. This is my letter to the editor with copy to Dunkerley.
To the Editor:
Mr. Dunkerley’s definition of Ohana, Hui, and the Aloha Spirit is exactly the problem.
He relates them to his office view, lunching with his staff, and art work on his jets. I understand now why customer service is not on his agenda. Same fares between islands, whether it’s a twenty minute or a 45 minute ride?
Initially, Hawaiian Airlines was for the people and fares differed between islands.
There are two lounges for first class customers: the more plush for the more elite who are able to afford a higher fee.
Aloha Spirit?
Profit is his goal. Question to Mr Dunkerley: Why was I charged $144 or was it $244, to change a simple reservation?
No, please have someone redefine these island cultural traits to you so you can better represent Hawaii at the true Hawaiian spirit. Hawaiian Airlines doesn’t represent Hawaii. OHana, Hui and the Aloha Spirit go beyond your beautiful office where you use your binoculars to see the city scene. You insult us in Hawaii.
You have not responded to my letters directed to you in contrast to your boast that you read all your letters.
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