HI HB1372

Allows any county in Hawaii to operate and maintain airports and airfields, in addition to the existing authority of the Department of Transportation.

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 261-4 to grant counties authority to plan, acquire, establish, construct, enlarge, improve, maintain, equip, and operate airports and air navigation facilities.

Extends to counties the same powers held by the Department of Transportation for acquiring property through purchase, gift, lease, or condemnation for airport purposes.

Addresses concerns about Kawaihapai Airfield (Dillingham Airfield) on Oahu's north shore, which generated $12,000,000 in yearly revenues and employed over 130 people as of 2019.

Takes effect upon approval.