The recent merger of Hawaiian Airlines with Alaska Airlines offers an opportunity for Native Hawaiian employees like Jacob Aki to highlight Hawaiian 'ike, values and people in shaping the culture of the newly formed company. – Photo: Courtesy of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines I'm proud that Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines understand this. They know that true aloha for Hawaiʻi means uplifting its people, and they empower us to help guide the company in ways that genuinely serve our communities. That kind of kuleana is powerful. One of the most meaningful projects I help lead is the push for locally produced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This effort goes beyond reducing carbon emissions. It's about mālama ʻāina – redefining sustainability through ancestral wisdom and future needs. Local SAF could support farmers, promote food and fuel security, and align climate goals with indigenous values. It also means creating pathways for our keiki to thrive at home.