STAR Marianas Air will increase its airfare effective Aug. 1, 2021.
The fare for flights between Saipan and Tinian will increase to $60 from $55 while the fare for flights between Saipan and Rota will rise to $135 from $125.
Star Marianas, however, will continue to offer discounts for CNMI residents and military personnel who travel to and from Saipan and Tinian.
For those traveling between Saipan and Rota, Star Marianas still offers discounts for those who book online.
In reaction to Star Marianas’ airfare increase, Commonwealth Ports Authority Chairwoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds issued the following statement:
“It’s unfortunate, disappointing, and mind-boggling that SMA would raise fares at this time. The facts are as follows: all fees but for rent have been waived until December. Rent is approximately $600 or less for Tinian and Rota. The only other fee that is being paid are the badge fees.”
King-Hinds, a resident of Tinian, also noted that the passenger facility charge or PFC has been waived until such time CPA gets reauthorization.
Star Marianas, she added, has not been paying any fees and now currently owes CPA over $2 million.
“So, you don’t pay your fair share, you keep increasing your charges, you hurt the community you say you’re serving, but you’re actually killing them by increasing the fare. Tinian and Rota are the most vulnerable of the islands and at some point this lip service has to be recognized for what it is,” the CPA chairwoman said.
Variety was unable to get a comment from Star Marianas.
