By Moneth G. Deposa
Variety News Staff

JAPAN Airlines will bring in nearly 7,000 tourists to the island starting next year on its planned 49 charter flights to Rota, according to the Commonwealth Ports Authority.
CPA said JAL will use a 737 aircraft which has a seating capacity of 140 passengers.
CPA board member Melchor Mendiola of Rota said JAL was to begin its charter flights in January.
“But because of the delay in the availability of airport equipment that they require on Rota, the January flight was not possible and we’re looking at early next year,” Mendiola told Variety.
On Thursday, the CPA board noted the enactment of the new law appropriating $800,000 for the Rota International Airport.
Sen. Paul A. Manglona, Ind.-Rota, along with Rep.-elect Victor B. Hocog, Ind.-Rota, on Thursday asked the board “to expedite the procurement process” so that JAL can immediately start its charter operations.
“Because the normal process will take time, it is the desire of the delegation and the Rota municipality to consider emergency procurement for this project,” Mendiola said, adding that he is optimistic that the board will act favorably on their request.
CPA Chairman Rex I. Palacios said they will do “their best” to realize the 49 charter flights of JAL, which pulled out of the CNMI in Oct. 2005.
Also on Thursday, Gov. Benigno Fitial swore in the new CPA board members: Saipan’s Marian DLG. Tudela and Tinian’s Reynaldo Cing.
Fitial also inducted the new set of officers led by reelected chairman Rex I. Palacios, vice chairman Antonio Camacho, secretary Connie Igisomar and member Melchor Mendiola.
“Work hard, maintain your costs and let’s work together to bring more flights here in the CNMI,” Fitial told them.
Palacios said the governor asked CPA to focus on seaport and airport improvements.
“CPA is asked to partner with the administration…and with other agencies in developing new businesses here on seaports. He believes in this agency and the governor wants CPA to maintain our costs, stay within our limit, and collect account receivables,” Palacios said.