More good news for our local economy. 

The Hawaii Tourism Authority says total expenditures and arrivals in May reached record highs for the second consecutive month.

The state saw 622,899 visitors, who in turn spent $1.1 billion. The agency said in a statement: 

Recent increases in domestic and international airlift along with major conventions, festivals and events throughout the state helped to generate an additional $159 million in May 2012 compared to last year, contributing to job growth and positive economic recovery for all major islands.

The agency anticipates even higher numbers for the summer given the many new mainland routes that recently opened including direct air service to New York (Hawaiian Airlines), Washington D.C. (United), Las Vegas and Fresno (Allegiant Airlines).