Chesky's Obama Lessons, Air Traffic Control Dreams and Hawaii's Green Tax
Photo Credit: Exterior of National Air Traffic Controllers Association office building in Washington, D.C. Adobe Stock / MelissaMN
Skift Take
For today’s pod we listen in on a conversation with Airbnb’s CEO and the last FLOTUS, hear about the U.S. DOT’s ATC plans, and look at Hawaii’s new tax on travelers.
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Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky has credited former President Barack Obama for mentoring him and changing his life, writes Executive Editor Dennis Schaal.
Chesky discussed his relationship with the former president in an episode of the podcast hosted by former First Lady Michelle Obama and her older brother, Craig Robinson. Chesky, who has talked publicly about dealing with loneliness, said Barack Obama urged him to reconnect with friends.
Chesky added that he and Obama would have regular calls in 2018, and the former president would give him homework. Chesky also said that Obama essentially told him a company should know what they’re making, why they’re doing it, and what the impact is on people.
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Next, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said that the United States’ top infrastructure project is overhauling its air traffic control system, writes Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi.
Duffy said at a press conference on Wednesday that reforms would require rebuilding the entire air traffic system, which could take years or even decades. He added some of the rebuilding includes replacing dated telecommunications equipment, along with installing new radars and radios.
The House recently passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” which would set aside $12.5 billion for air traffic control reform. However, it’s uncertain if the Senate will pass the bill in its current form.
Finally, Hawaii has added a new “green fee” to hotel stays to address the growing impact of climate change, writes Climate Reporter Darin Graham.
Governor Josh Green signed a bill into law this week that adds a 0.75% surcharge to Hawaii’s existing accommodations tax, raising it to 11% on hotel room rates. And starting in January, the fee will also apply to cruise ship cabins when vessels dock in Hawaii for the first time.
State officials say the added revenue, which could be around $100 million annually, will support disaster preparation and environmental protection efforts across Hawaii’s islands.
