HANA, Maui » The first scheduled flight to Hana in more than a decade will be taking off from Kahu­lui Airport.

It’s been 12 years since the remote, rural Maui community has seen scheduled air service. Driving from Kahu­lui to Hana can take at least two hours.

The inaugural Mokulele Airlines flight will depart today after a blessing at Kahu­lui Airport.

The new 20-minute, twice-daily flights come from a partnership between the interisland airline and Travaasa Experiential Resorts.

Hana resident and state Sen. J. Kalani English says the flights will provide a boost for Hana’s economy and its resort and spa, Travaasa Hana Maui.

He calls it a "lifeline" for Hana and says it’s the first step to restoring flights at other rural airports.