International Star Diamond Award and Green Star Diamond Award

Blue Hawaiian was awarded the 'Green Star Diamond Award' from the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences in recognition of hospitality companies which also demonstrate extraordinary dedication to environmental responsibility. Blue Hawaiian was honored for its pioneering work in the development of the quiet-technology EC130 ' Eco-Star ' helicopter (which flies 50% more quietly over Hawaii's delicate ecologies) along with its investment in Hawaii's largest fleet of these 21st-century quiet technology aircraft. The Academy also recognized the two decades of leadership in developing statewide noise-abatement strategies and community outreach programs to significantly reduce the noise impact of tours over local communties. The company recently installed a solar array at the Maui Operations Center (which supplies 90% of the company's electrical needs).

Typically presented to only the cream of five- and six-star hotels, cruise lines and restaurants world wide, the International Star Diamond Award is considered to be the most prestigious recognition in the entire travel industry. Blue Hawaiian is the only activity company in the world, of any kind, to receive this exclusive award.

Founded in 1949, the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences is the world’s premiere organization for awarding excellence in travel, cuisine, luxury products and services. Each year, the Academy bestows its coveted International Star Diamond Award—a recognition that many strive for, but few achieve—on superlative establishments that are deemed to be of pinnacle quality. Based in New York City, the Academy is governed by an international Board of Trustees. All members of the Board are respected leaders in the industry and are, themselves, sophisticated world travelers. Valuable sources around the globe routinely submit nominations to the Board for review. The Board then refines the selection to those who qualify for the ultimate evaluation. Among the elite membership of the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences are five-star quality hotels, resorts, spas, airlines, cruise lines, automobiles, products, restaurants and chefs. Invitations to join the Academy are based on the nominee’s total commitment to excellence within its category and classification, and the reflection of that commitment through its delivery of consistent excellence to its guests or customers. These rigorous standards set the Academy’s International Star Diamond Award above and beyond all others.