Around 400 tourists stranded in CNMI as Sinlaku cancels flights

The Marianas Visitors Authority has confirmed that around 400 tourists are currently stranded in the CNMI following widespread flight cancellations brought about by the approach of Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

Marianas Press earlier reported that all four international airlines flying to Saipan—United Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, and T’way Air—have grounded flights to the U.S. territory due to the approaching 180-mph super typhoon.

MVA board chair Warren Villagomez said the figure is an estimate based on data gathered from the hotel industry, with visitors unable to depart as airlines suspend operations ahead of the storm.

“We’re working with the Office of Homeland Security, the Governor’s Office, and the response coordination team to make sure that tourists are informed and kept up to date,” Villagomez said in an interview with Marianas Press.

“We’re also communicating with the airlines responsible for repatriating them, although that part is beyond our control.”

He added that hotels across Saipan are doing their part to accommodate stranded guests, ensuring they remain safe and as comfortable as possible while conditions remain hazardous.

“Safety comes first,” he said. “We’re glad to hear hotels are doing everything they can to take care of our visitors.”

Villagomez said authorities are preparing for the eventual resumption of flights once conditions improve, coordinating with the Commonwealth Ports Authority and airlines to ensure runways are safe and operations can resume smoothly.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong Airlines station manager Joan Boongaling said most of their affected passengers are booked through tour groups such as Century Tours and LTT, which are handling accommodations and care.

“HKA is sending flight updates and information through email and text,” Boongaling said, adding that individual or local passengers have been contacting the airline directly through its office and customer service channels.