How a former baggage handler turned a small Hawaiian charter service into an aviation icon

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Mokulele Airlines began as a modest charter operation with three small planes. Today, it serves as a vital inter-island connector in Hawaii, navigating complex corporate mergers and pioneering electric aviation. From its humble beginnings to its role in testing future flight technology, the airline remains a unique fixture of Pacific travel.

Founded in 1994 by Rebecca Inaba, Mokulele was the first Hawaiian airline established by a Native Hawaiian woman. The name, which translates to flying ship, reflects its identity as an island hopper. In 2005, the company was acquired by Bill Boyer, Jr., a former baggage handler who transitioned into an entrepreneur. Under his leadership, the airline expanded from sightseeing tours around the Big Island and Maui into scheduled inter-island services, eventually navigating a series of complex partnerships with larger carriers like Mesa Air Group and Republic Airways.

The airline’s history is defined by its adaptability. It has survived bankruptcy-related shifts, internal audits, and intense competition, often adjusting its fleet and route network to meet local demand. In 2019, Southern Airways Express acquired the company, and by 2023, both became subsidiaries of Surf Air Mobility. This corporate evolution has not hindered its local reputation; the airline has frequently been recognized by regional media as Hawaii’s premier island hopper and commuter carrier, even earning a top ranking for leisure travel in North America from Trip Advisor in 2019.

Looking toward the future, Mokulele is actively testing sustainable aviation technologies. It has partnered with Ampaire to demonstrate electric propulsion systems on its Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft, with test flights occurring between Kahului and Hana. Additionally, the airline is set to be the first operator of the Viceroy, an electric seaglider developed by REGENT. These initiatives, alongside the integration of larger 30-seat Saab 340B aircraft to fill service gaps, demonstrate the airline's ongoing commitment to evolving its operations while maintaining its essential role in connecting Hawaii’s smaller communities.

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