HI SR144

Requests the Airports Division of the Department of Transportation to convene a task force to explore the feasibility of establishing an airports corporation to manage Hawaii's state airports.

Task force must include representatives from the Department of Transportation, legislative transportation committee chairs, Hawaii Tourism Authority, airline industry, labor unions, airport businesses, and other relevant stakeholders.

Task force directed to analyze potential advantages and disadvantages of creating an airports corporation, including impacts on airport operations, governance, staffing, facilities quality, and overall effectiveness.

Task force must submit a report of findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2026 Regular Session convenes.

Identifies airports as critical to economic development, tourism, and island connectivity, employing thousands in airlines, operations, security, maintenance, and related sectors.