HONOLULU, Hawaii – Paul Casey, former head of Hawaiian Airlines and former President and CEO of the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau, has been named Chief Executive Officer of Island Air. Casey will begin his new position on May 1.

“We are delighted to have someone with Paul Casey’s extensive experience in the airline and travel industries join Island Air,” said Paul Marinelli, Island Air Director and Vice President of Lawrence Investments, LLC. “Paul will be instrumental in the continuing growth of Island Air as we add aircraft and expand service. He is joining our team at an important time and will bring fresh perspective and proven leadership to our efforts.”

“Having been part of Hawai‘i’s visitor and airline industries for the past three decades, joining Island Air at this time is an exciting opportunity,” said Casey. “I look forward to working with the Island Air team to deliver high-quality air service and provide improved options for interisland travelers.”

Marinelli said Les Murashige will continue as Island Air’s President, responsible for all day-to-day operations, and will report to Casey.

“Les has done an outstanding job since the change in ownership, as has the entire Island Air team. He will continue to play a critical role in our expansion,” said Marinelli.

Casey, who is the current Chair of the O‘ahu Visitors Bureau, has more than 35 years in international travel and tourism, the airline industry, and business. He served as Vice Chairman, President and CEO of Hawaiian Airlines from 1997 to 2002. He was President and CEO of the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau from 1995 to 1997 and continues to serve on its board. He was Chairman, President and CEO of Continental Air Micronesia from 1987 to 1991, then went on to serve as its Vice President-International Division from 1991 to 1994. He currently serves as a consultant on numerous travel-related and business projects in Hawai‘i and the Asia-Pacific region.

Island Air was purchased by Lawrence J. Ellison in February of this year.