KOROR (Palau Government/Pacnews) — Palau welcomed more than 100 visitors who arrived on the inaugural United Airlines direct flight from Narita, Japan, on Wednesday.
The flight was greeted by water cannons and upon disembarking passengers were greeted warmly with traditional Palauan music and cultural dancers.
President Surangel Whipps Jr., and Steve Morrissey, vice president of regulatory and policy at United Airlines, were among the first arrivals.
“This new direct flight to Japan marks another important milestone in expanding opportunities for travel, commerce, and cultural exchange,” said President Whipps.
“We are grateful to United Airlines for their continued partnership and leadership in reconnecting Palau to the world. Their swift action to resume flights after the pandemic, and commitment to restoring our air links, has been crucial to our economic revival.”
The inaugural flight heralds a new chapter in the connection between Palau and Japan, facilitated by United Airlines’ dedication to regional accessibility and partnership.
“Our new direct flights between Palau and Japan with onward connections to the U.S reflects our commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the growth of local economies,” said Steve Morrissey, vice president for international regulatory and policy.
“This new route will provide our customers greater travel choice and the opportunity to visit many attractions in each destination and strengthens our longstanding partnership with Palau. United continues to expand in places our customers want to travel, and our new service to Palau is a great example of that.”
President Whipps highlighted that the new non-stop service from Narita to Palau provides convenient access for business travelers, tourists, and local communities. He noted ongoing efforts with government officials and business leaders in Japan, the United States, and Palau, along with United Airlines representatives, to reach this milestone.
United Airlines has long been a critical partner in Palau’s regional connectivity, President Whipps reiterated.
As the first airline to resume flights to Palau post-pandemic and among the quickest to restore service levels close to those seen before Covid, United has played a vital role in Palau’s recovery and ongoing growth.