For us who live here on Maui and the many more who have traveled here to Kiteboard, we all know what an awesome place this is for Kiteboarding. Its consistently strong trade winds, warm water, spectacular views and winter swell make for some of the best Kiteboarding on the planet. What many do not know, possibly even some locals is how tenuous a relationship Kiteboarding has with the North Shore of Maui. Under normal circumstances none of us would be able to Kiteboard on the North shore because of the presence of the airport. FAA regulations prohibit the flying of any kites within 5 miles of an airport.

It is only allowed here because of the strong efforts of a few individuals who became involved with the sport early on. They helped create what is known as “The Waiver”, the FAA waiver that allows Kiteboarding on the North Shore of Maui. Without it, we are all without a great place to Kite. What even less people know is that this waiver is held by one individual, not the county or some organization! Presently it is being held by Joel Richman, father of Shawn and Jesse Richman, before him it was Dylan Grafmyer and Martin Kirk. This is a considerable responsibility for one individual to hold and our many thanks must go out to Joel, Dylan and Martin. What all of us owe these individuals as well, is our support and our continued effort to play by the rules! This means Kiting in the allowed boundaries and especially staying clear of the "NO FLY ZONE" in front of the airport’s runway. When one Kiteboarder decides to break the rules they put our whole sport at risk of being banned from such a great playground!

Joel has agreed to assume the role of being responsible for leading the efforts to educate tourist and local riders of the FAA regulations that relate to kite flying within 5 miles of Kahului International Airport for another 2 years. ! This doesn't mean that Joel is the only person who must comply with the FAA rules. We all have to assume responsibility to educate new riders and tourists and it will be through our collective efforts that kiteboarding will continue to thrive here. So thanks to everyone for doing their part to educate themselves and others. Please remember when educating others avoid taking a hard line and risk alienating the riders who are violating or about to violate the FAA rules. Rather, explain the implications of their actions and perhaps explain the long struggle to get to where we are at this point. We should all remember to voice our appreciation to FAA for issuing a waiver to their regulations so we can enjoy kiteboarding on Maui's Beautiful North Shore.

Many Mahalo's Joel!

PLEASE FOR EVERYONE WHO LOVES TO KITE IN THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE!

PLEASE PLAY BY THE RULES AND STAY CLEAR OF THE "NO FLY ZONE"!

PLEASE SEE MAP AND RULES BELOW!

PLEASE RESPECT EACH OTHER (ALL OCEAN USERS) AND OUR OCEAN ENVIRONMENT!

Click on small map to see a detailed larger version of the "No Fly Zone"!

Click on other rules image to view the official FAA Rules!

If you live here or visit frequently please think about becoming a Maui Kitesurfing Community member which will help support the efforts of Joel Richman and many others who have worked so hard to insure our Kiteboarding Lifestyle here on Maui!

Please Go To Maui Kitesurfing Comunity and sign up!