Paradise Helicopters Assists Communities Affected by Volcanic Activity

 Paradise Helicopters, a leading Hawai‘i helicopter tour company, has launched several efforts to assist communities affected by the recent volcanic activity on the Island of Hawai‘i.

Through June 30, 2018, Paradise will donate $10 per seat on all directly booked tours originating from Hilo International Airport, and $20 per seat on tours departing from Kona International Airport, to support relief efforts serving Leilani Estates evacuees. Paradise is also offering Leilani Estates residents discounted flights from Hilo to help them survey their home or property, and is flying members of the news media over the area to provide accurate, up-to-date coverage.  

Paradise is actively working with County of Hawai‘i regulatory agencies to offer relief assistance in coordination with ongoing efforts by emergency responders. Due to current Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR), non-emergency aircraft and drone operators are restricted from flying in airspace up to 3,000 feet above ground level within a 5-nautical-mile radius centered on Leilani Estates and a 2-nautical-mile radius centered on Kiluea’s Puʻu ʻŌʻō vent.

“The entire staff at Paradise is concerned for the safety and well-being of these communities,” said Calvin Dorn, CEO of Paradise Helicopters. “We are requesting permission to assist with emergency relief in whatever capacity we can, and are offering deeply discounted flights to Leilani Estates residents. Whenever possible, we are providing those residents complimentary last-minute standby seats from Hilo.” 

These efforts are part of Paradise’s longstanding Hoomaluo Program, which supports environmental and community stewardship. The company has also previously provided assistance when requested and permitted under an ongoing agreement with the County of Hawai‘i Fire Department, although no Paradise flights to provide relief for the recent volcanic activity have yet been authorized.