Governor Lingle today announced she has secured a personal commitment by China Airlines to retain existing flights to Honolulu, even during the current international economic slowdown. This includes two direct flights between Taipei and Honolulu on Thursdays and Sundays, and flights on the other five days of the week which have stopovers in Tokyo.

Governor Lingle met with China Airlines Chairman Philip Wei during her official state visit to Taiwan this week. Increasing tourism outreach and marketing to new and emerging markets is a key component of the Lingle-Aiona Administration's five-point proactive action plan to bolster the economy and create jobs.

During the Governor's meeting, Chairman Wei also stated his commitment to consider instituting direct airline service between China to Honolulu through Taipei in the future.

"This announcement by China Airlines is welcome news for our state as we work to increase arrivals from emerging markets," said Governor Lingle. "I am grateful to Chairman Wei for recognizing the value of service between mainland China and our state."

Additional information on Governor Lingle and Lt. Governor Aiona's Asia trips and schedules as well as the five-point economic proactive action plan can be found online at www.hawaii.gov/gov.

---