Hawaiian Airlines established an ‘ōlelo Hawai’i certification program for its employees, available at no cost, in an effort to conserve traditional Hawai’ian language.

“Adding ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i as a recognized language was a natural move for Hawaiian since the majority of our ‘ohana was either born or raised on our islands,” said Jim Lynde, senior vice president of human resources, Hawaiian Airlines. “We believe the Hawaiian language certification will inspire and empower even more team members to share ‘ōlelo Hawai‘i with our guests.”

The program, developed in partnership with Hawai’ian language experts, is available to employees who are existing speakers and demonstrate advanced proficiency through an oral and reading exam. Those who obtain certification add the Hawai’ian state flag to their nametag, to indicate their fluency to passengers.

“This is an incredible moment for our ‘ohana and an opportunity for employees to share Hawai‘i’s mother tongue wide and far,” said Debbie Nakanelua-Richards, director of community relations, Hawaiian Airlines. “Language is a powerful tool, and we are proud to help keep the history and essence of these beautiful islands alive through ‘ōlelo Hawai’i.”

The initiative is just one way Hawaiian Airlines celebrates the Hawai’ian culture. It also offers complimentary, introductory Hawai’ian language and hula lessons to employees and recently unveiled a Hawai’ian Culture Resource Center at its Honolulu headquarters.