KOROR (Palau Government/Pacnews) — The Office of the President of Palau has announced that United Airlines will begin direct flights between Narita, Japan and Palau on Oct. 29, 2025.
United will provide flight schedules and other information in the coming days.
“We welcome United Airlines and this new route, which restores a critical route after Delta Airlines withdrew from the region,” said President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr.
“These twice-weekly flights will restore a vital bridge in the sky bringing pristine paradise Palau closer to Japan and strengthening connections between our two nations.”
Delta Airlines used to service the route until it withdrew from the region in 2015. Since then, Japanese visitors have faced the challenge of multiple connecting flights to reach Palau.
Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl, the minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development, emphasized the importance of this connection: “The dream of a regular direct flight from Japan has finally become a reality thanks to the persistence of President Whipps. This UA route will reconnect our traditional key market of Japan as well as all United Airlines’ global reach, making travel to Palau more efficient and convenient.”
The expected boost to tourism from Japan, which was historically one of Palau’s key markets, follows a slow increase in that market over recent months. According to Palau Visitors Authority’s March 2025 report, the Japan market demonstrated a positive trend, capturing 18.2% of the market share, making it the third largest market.
The new flight is part of President Whipps’ long-standing goal of building Palau into a gateway for travelers, connecting Asia with Pacific destinations north and south of the equator.
The direct service will help boost Palau’s market diversification strategy, said Kadoi Ruluked, PVA managing director. He said PVA’s efforts to expand Palau’s market are part of the President’s vision of “Tourism with a Purpose” in which Palau welcomes visitors who respect our lands and oceans.
According to the government, “Palau is strategically rebuilding Palau’s tourism with a focus on high-value travelers who share our commitment to environmental stewardship. This connection, alongside our expanded partnerships with carriers serving Taiwan, Australia, and other key regions, positions Palau to showcase our unparalleled marine experiences and rich cultural heritage to discerning and adventurous global travelers who seek authentic, sustainable destinations. Our goal is to balance tourism growth with our longstanding commitment to protecting the pristine paradise that has sustained Palauans for generations.”
