Hawaiian Airlines has replaced Honolulu-based McNeil Wilson Communications with a mainland firm to do most of its public relations.

Edelman, the world’s largest PR firm with 66 offices, including in New York and San Francisco, took over the contract on March 1. 

McNeil Wilson had handled the Hawaiian account for more than 15 years.

Hawaiian said the launch of its New York route precipitated the change when the company recognized it needed more local support in key mainland markets. Hawaiian began flying to John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York last June.

“McNeil Wilson has been a good partner and we will continue to work with them on media blitzes and other projects,” Hawaiian spokesman Keoni Wagner said.