Rota and Tinian terminals also undergoing upgrades
Commonwealth Ports Authority Board Vice Chairman Antonio B. Cabrera and Executive Director Esther Ada both described the newly reopened Saipan commuter terminal as a symbol of the government’s commitment to the islanders’ quality of life and a testament to community resilience.
Cabrera and Ada joined Gov. David M. Apatang and other NMI officials in highlighting the modern facility, which will finally provide inter-island travelers the comfort and convenience they deserve while waiting for flights to Tinian and Rota.
“This building represents more than just a structure. It symbolizes our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the people of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, as well as visitors from abroad,” Cabrera said. “This new facility demonstrates our dedication to building a better future for our community, and we are proud to take this significant step forward.”
The Saipan commuter terminal will play a critical role in strengthening inter-island connectivity between the CNMI and Guam.
“It is a vital link in our air travel network—one that will promote economic growth,” Cabrera added. He praised the dedication and perseverance of CPA staff, management, and all stakeholders involved.
In her remarks, CPA Executive Director Ada reflected on what the ribbon-cutting ceremony truly represented. She recalled the destruction caused by Super Typhoon Yutu, which left CPA facing a difficult choice: restore what remained of the old terminal or build something entirely new.
“Through challenges, setbacks, and numerous obstacles,” Ada said, the decision to rebuild the terminal from the ground up “has brought us to this moment—the opening of a stronger terminal, better prepared for the future.”
Ada said the facility is more than just a building. It stands as a symbol of resilience and community—helping families stay connected, supporting businesses, and welcoming travelers to the islands. The terminal also enhances regional access, including alternative routes to Guam.
It creates “new hope and opportunities” for the Marianas, Ada remarked proudly.
She thanked CPA’s airline partners for their unwavering support, and the CPA board, staff, and management for their tireless efforts, especially in the final weeks leading up to the ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“This project demanded dedication, long hours, and teamwork. Your hard work made this achievement possible. Let us continue to care for this facility with pride, ensuring it remains a vital connection between our islands for generations to come. And to the people of the Marianas, thank you for being here,” Ada said.
Saipan Chamber of Commerce President Joe Guerrero described the facility as beautiful, noting in particular the local artworks adorning the walls.
“This is something the entire CNMI community can be proud of,” he said.
Guerrero said Saipan’s new commuter terminal will change the inter-island travel experience, adding that the Rota and Tinian terminals are also undergoing upgrades.
With all these upgrades underway, Guerrero added, “… it is a symbolic renewal of our airport spaces.”
Micronesian Air Connection Services owner John Stewart said the completion of the new terminal was “a long time coming,” adding, “we welcome it.” He said MAC has supported CPA through many challenges.
As the company grows, he said, it will continue to develop alongside the upgraded facility.
Star Marianas President Shaun Christian said it was exciting to witness the terminal’s opening. “I think the customer experience is going to be so much better than it has been, and we are looking forward to starting operations,” he said.
Excited
The mayors of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota shared their excitement on behalf of their constituents who frequently travel between islands.
Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan said, “Now, we’ll have customers who don’t have to hide from the rain or the heat of the sun.”
He said the new terminal will provide tourists and residents of Tinian and Rota with a sense of security and convenience.
Rota Mayor Aubry Hocog congratulated CPA and all who contributed to the project. She thanked Gov. David M. Apatang, Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola, the CPA board, and municipal leaders for “a great step moving forward.”
“This is one way to really showcase the upgraded port facility. It is also a great way to welcome local residents traveling inter-island. We are absolutely thrilled. We will also do our part on Rota so that when we receive visitors from Saipan, we can offer the same quality,” she said.
Saipan Mayor Ramon Blas “RB” Camacho said that whenever he travels to Tinian and Rota, he wouldn’t mind even a two-hour delay because of the convenience and amenities of the new commuter terminal.
“I don’t mind a two-hour layover,” he said. “We now have this up-to-par building for our tourists and our local residents who travel. It’s very convenient. Let’s look forward and bring more tourists.”
