Maui's tourism industry got a boost in Washington, which is good news for hotels and businesses on an island still trying to rebuild its visitor economy.

• Maui leaders want direct flights from Japan, letting travelers skip the stop in Honolulu.
• The plan would let Japanese travelers clear U.S. customs before they board, then fly straight to Maui.
• Special presidential envoy for American tourism Nick Adams met Maui leaders and promised to push the idea forward.
• The idea has been tried three times over 30 years and failed — this is the first time someone from Washington is behind it.
• Japanese travel to Hawaii is still weak because the yen is cheap, flights cost a lot, and younger Japanese travelers are staying closer to home.

Outlook: There's no money or timeline attached yet, with Hawaii and Washington expected to hash out details over the next six months.