Letters to the Business Editor

Mesa isn't entitled to 'Hawaiian' defense

In response to J. Parker's letter (Sunday, July 23, 2006). Mr. Parker claims that Hawaiian Airlines' lawsuit filed to stop the Mesa Air Group's use of the words "Hawaiian Airline" was "completely contrary to Hawaiian beliefs."

Let me just say that as a local resident born and raised here in the islands, I find that it is widely frowned upon when "mainland" people and their businesses enter Hawaii and immediately call themselves "Hawaiian."

Being that it is simply something they are not, it should be seen as disrespectful to the Hawaiian people and their culture. I do not believe that Mesa has fully researched the sensitivity of the matter prior to entering the Hawaii market. The reason is likely plain ignorance. Do not be fooled into believing that go! (Mesa) has consideration for Hawaii or its people.