Maui Wildfires, August 2023

The unprecedented wildfires in Maui have taken a devastating toll on the community, destroying most of the downtown of Lahaina. It could take months to generate the economic impact of the wildfires on an island dependent on the travel industry, but we are certain they will need support in rebuilding. In addition to federal response and aid, countless organizations and individuals across the travel industry have stepped up to assist in the recovery. Our hearts are with Hawai’i.

Below is a list of organizations, services and ways to contribute to the recovery.

Federal Assistance

Make a Meaningful Donation to Wildfire Victims

As the industry comes together to uplift and support those in need following the devastation of the wildfires in Maui, there are numerous ways you can make a meaningful impact.

Your contributions can help those impacted rebuild their lives, recover their businesses, find hope and move forward on the path to recovery. We have listed options for those looking to support travel industry colleagues and other victims during this difficult time. Thank you for your consideration.

A message from the Hawaii Tourism Authority (August 18, 2023)

The Hawai‘i Tourism Authority urges visitors to refrain from going to West Maui (including Lāhainā, Nāpili, Kāʻanapali, and Kapalua) as a means of respect to the people and places that have been lost in Lāhainā during this devastating tragedy. All nonessential travel to West Maui being strongly discouraged through the month of August.

We encourage travelers to consider visiting other areas of Maui (including Kahului, Wailuku, Kīhei, Wailea, Mākena, Pāʻia and Hāna), or other islands such as Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi and Hawaiʻi Island. There are many ways to Mālama Hawaiʻi (care for Hawaiʻi) and during this time we ask that those visiting our islands do so mindfully and with respect for those who call this place home.

Industry Response

Thank you to the industry in lending assistance to our fellow colleagues and friends in Hawaii.

Alaska Airlines

  • Supplies sent on cargo flight including food, water, bedding and more
  • Planning additional flights
  • Flexible with rebooking/cancellation
  • Rescue flights from Maui to Honolulu
  • Response

American Airlines

  • Extra flights, upgrading flights to larger planes
  • Offering bonus miles for every $25 donated to the Red Cross
  • American tweet

Delta

Hawaii Convention Center

  • Opened as assistance center for Maui evacuees
  • Prepped to help 4,000 people

Hawaiian Airlines

  • Contributed more than $600,000 in cash and in-kind donations toward relief efforts
  • Provided more than 4,000 free seats to volunteers and the Maui community
  • Additional flights for $19 during week of 7th
  • Reserving cargo space for medical supplies
  • Tweeted statement

Hotels in Hawaii

  • 500 Hotel rooms being made available for displaced locals (+ 500 more for FEMA workers)
  • State looking to Airbnb for help too

The Kahului Airport

  • Sheltering over 1,800 people

Southwest

  • Adding flights to and within Hawaii for supplies and people starting at $19
  • Donated more than $100,000 in cash and air travel in the days following the fire
  • Transport of supplies and volunteer firefighters

Uber

  • Discounted rides to evacuees arriving in Oahu going to HCC for shelter
  • Matching up to $500,000 in donations to help provide critical aid

U-Haul

  • Free storage for 30 days for residents impacted

United