Aviation Community Sending Aid to Maui

Alaska Airlines sends supplies, evacuates residents

Meg Godlewski

Friday, August 11, 2023 at 04:29 PM ET

Verified

Lahaina town, Maui [Civil Air Patrol]

Key Takeaways:

Devastating wildfires in Maui, particularly Lahaina, have caused significant destruction and at least 55 fatalities, with concerns raised about the failure of public warning systems.
The aviation community is mobilizing extensive relief efforts, involving U.S. military forces (Army National Guard, Navy, Coast Guard) for firefighting and search, and civilian companies like Planet 9 and Alaska Airlines for transporting supplies, evacuating residents, and donating aid.
Alaska Airlines has launched relief flights with critical supplies, offers flexible travel options, and has donated millions in miles and funds to support displaced residents and local relief organizations.
Authorities are warning the public to be vigilant against fraudulent donation scams and recommend contributing only to verified relief groups such as the Red Cross and Maui Strong Fund.

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The aviation community is stepping up to assist the residents of Maui who have been affected by the devastating wildfire that destroyed the town of Lahaina and is still out of control. Maui County fire officials note there are several fires burning and their resources to fight them are limited.

The death toll stands at least 55 people and is feared to go higher as the burned-out remains of buildings are searched. The fire moved so fast people were overtaken as they tried to escape.