A new flight connecting Australia to Palau will start this December 13, 2022, announced the Australian government.
The flight dubbed “Australia-Palau Connector” is a flight route between Brisbane, Port Moresby, and Koror return.
Air Niugini, in partnership with the Australian government, services this route, supported financially by the “Australian government’s Pacific Flight Programme during the initial establishment phase.”
“The Pacific Flight Programme has supported over 450 flights in the Pacific since December 2020 and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic across 14 routes and 11 countries. This has helped keep Pacific communities connected, maintain supply chains and deliver critical medicines. The programme removes airlines’ commercial risk operating an agreed flight, assuring regular and scheduled flights for passengers and cargo,” stated the announcement issued by the Australian government.
“The past two years, as a result of the global pandemic, has demonstrated the vital importance of air connectivity,” said Ambassador Richelle Turner.
“The service reconnects people and creates tourism, education, trade, and business opportunities. We look forward to realising these opportunities by working in partnership with the government, businesses, and people of Palau.”
President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. added his appreciation: “Mesulang to our Pacific Partners in Australia! Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, you stood with us, assisting us as we battled to safeguard our nation’s health. And again, at this critical juncture in time as Palau works to rebuild a sustainable and strong economy, you have stepped up with an airline partnership that will help revive and diversify Palau’s tourist industry. We share the belief that as members of the Blue Continent, our economies and our environment are stronger when we work together – we look forward to welcoming Australians to our beautiful Palau, and we look forward to visiting you as well!” The service will run every two weeks and commences on 13 December subject to regulatory approvals, with further information .