Hilo, Las Vegas now connected with first regular nonstop service

HILO (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Ninth Island is now just one flight away for East Hawaii residents.

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Southwest Airlines launched direct flights between Hilo and Las Vegas Thursday, the first regular nonstop service to connect the cities.

Nearly 160 passengers were greeted with lei when the first flight landed in Hilo at 12:35 p.m. Mayor Kimo Alameda was also there to greet passengers.

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“When I took office, I pledged to strengthen ties with the ‘Ninth Island’— Las Vegas, where many Hawaii-born residents live,” said Mayor Alameda. “Southwest’s new nonstop service reinforces those connections, making travel more convenient for local families while supporting economic and cultural ties between our communities.”

The flights are currently offered on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.

The airline says the new service connects customers to 80 places with direct flights from Las Vegas.

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Southwest also offers multiple daily connections from Hilo to Honolulu.