Hansen’s disease survivors and National Park Service workers at the Kalaupapa Settlement say they’ll be traveling easier now that a new air carrier has started essential air service to their isolated, rural community at  reasonable prices.

"It’s better for us. It’s better for everybody, even the tourists," said Gloria Marks, a resident and business owner, noting the new fares are much cheaper than the previous carrier’s.

Makani Kai Charters, the new subsidized essential air service carrier with two Cessna Grand Caravans, was scheduled to hold a blessing Tuesday at Kalaupapa. The air carrier, established by Schuman Aviation Co. in 2009, began providing subsidized service on Dec. 10.