A flight on Aloha inspires a child to become a commercial pilot

Growing up, my family always flew on Aloha Airlines. My first airplane ride was on an interisland flight from Kona to Honolulu with my dad when I was 3 years old.

As a kid, that instantly made me a lifelong fan of aviation. I remember drawing hundreds of Aloha Airlines airplanes.

Two years ago I left Hawaii to finish my commercial aviation degree at the University of North Dakota to become a pilot with the hopes and dreams of one day being able to fly for a local airline in Hawaii.

Although I am excited to be facing graduation next month, my home in the islands, my dreams and my heart are now one airline short. Aloha will be missed. I do not have enough words to express my gratitude to all the employees of Aloha Airlines for the many years of dedicated service and the fondest memories that I will cherish forever.

Thank you.

Bryan Shirota