Hurricane Lala's approach to the Big Island on Saturday led to widespread flight disruptions, with numerous flights bound for Hawaii canceled from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
The Category 1 storm, packing maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, forced airlines to cancel flights to Kona, Maui, Kauai, and Honolulu. The storm's path also prompted airlines to reduce service across the islands.
Officials warned of potentially life-threatening flooding and mudslides on the Big Island, where higher elevations could receive up to 25 inches of rain. Forecasters noted that if Lala makes landfall, it would be the first hurricane to hit the Big Island in 155 years.
Travel disruptions extended throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Hilo experienced a complete suspension of all service. Kona suspended all service after 2 p.m. local time. Airlines operated reduced schedules in Kahului, Maui, and Lihue, Kauai. In Honolulu, Oahu, Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines largely maintained their scheduled flights.
In total, 59 inter-island flights and 18 transpacific flights were canceled on Saturday. An additional five inter-island and three transpacific flights were canceled for Sunday as crews prepared for possible worsening conditions.
Airlines advised travelers to check their flight statuses before heading to the airport due to the possibility of further schedule changes as weather conditions are assessed and passenger safety remains the priority.