Maui County, which includes the Hawaiian Islands of Maui, Lanai and Molokai, has updated its regulations as of May 4 to require a Covid-19 test upon arrival for all those seeking an exemption from the state's 10-day quarantine period.
Under Hawaii's Safe Travels program, travelers from out of state must take an approved Covid-19 test within 72 hours of their departure for the Islands and submit proof of a negative result in order to skip quarantine. After experiencing an uptick in Covid-19 cases, including a handful of clusters, Maui officials decided to add an extra layer to the protocol.
Maui County's only airport for transpacific flights is Kahului Airport on Maui. All out-of-state passengers arriving at Kahului who choose to take part in the Safe Travels program and seek a quarantine exemption will be required to take a second Covid-19 test that will be paid for and provided by the county. The new requirement applies to both residents and visitors. Those who choose not to participate in Safe Travels or take the second test upon arrival will be required to self quarantine in their home or accommodations for 10 days.
Travelers who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19, meaning they are two weeks past their final dose, will not have to take the second test if they provide proof of vaccination.
In a press conference on May 3, Maui County officials said the May 4 launch date will be the beginning of a trial period for the program as any kinks in the process are worked out. The new regulation is expected to be in full effect next week.
"This is really to help prevent the influx of any new viruses, especially new variants, in our community," Sandy Baz, the managing director of Maui County, said in the May 3 press conference.
Travelers are encouraged to preregister for post-arrival testing at mauiarrivaltest.com.