AT 4:05 a.m. on Saturday, a China Southern Airlines aircraft arrived on Saipan, marking the start of the CNMI’s efforts to expand its tourism market.
The twice-a-week flight of China Southern Airlines is expected to generate $27 million in additional revenue to the ailing local economy, tourism and administration officials told Variety.
“We are trying out best to tap the China market,” Gov. Juan N. Babauta said. “This flight is a good indication.”
Babauta led commonwealth officials in meeting the 198-man Chinese delegation from Ghuangzhou, which included 26 CNMI officials headed by Lt. Gov. Diego T. Benavente.
Acting Marianas Visitors Authority Managing Director Vicky T. Benavente said the newest airline servicing Saipan will have a “positive impact” on the local economy.
Tom Liu, general manager of Tinian Dynasty Hotel and Casino, said they were expecting the federal government to approve the application to increase the number of China Southern Airline flights to the CNMI.
