HK Airlines returns as CNMI tourism rebuilds after back-to-back super typhoons

The return of Hong Kong Airlines marks another milestone in the Northern Mariana Islands' tourism recovery, with the Marianas Visitors Authority saying the carrier's resumption makes it the second international airline to restore service following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Sinlaku and, more recently, Super Typhoon Bavi.

MVA Marketing manager Andy Qin said the July 13 arrival underscored the resilience of the destination despite the back-to-back storms.

"This is the second international flight coming back to the island after the typhoon. This is the second typhoon probably, unfortunately."

A total of 174 passengers arrived aboard the returning Hong Kong Airlines flight, while 38 passengers were booked on the outbound flight to Hong Kong.

Qin said the airport and tourism industry had worked hard to ensure visitors could still enjoy the destination despite ongoing recovery efforts.

"No, we tried to make everything ready, but unfortunately we had a second typhoon. But you can see all the tourist partners, and even [the Commonwealth Ports Authority and the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.]... they also worked very hard to make the recovery as soon as possible. So the flight didn't have a delay. As the original schedule, they resumed the flight."

While the CNMI's signature attraction, Managaha Island, remains closed pending clearance from the Department of Public Lands, Qin said tour operators have developed alternative experiences for arriving visitors.

"They tried to make more activities for the tourists. Of course, some places are still not available. But they will try their best to entertain our tourists."

Asked about Managaha Island, Qin said, "It still depends on waiting for DPL to release to the public."

Hong Kong Airlines has resumed its pre-typhoon schedule of two flights a week, with the possibility of expanding to three weekly services if demand supports it.

"Hong Kong is, as before, two flights per week... we'll see the first couple of weeks. If the load factor support, then they will add more."

Jeju Air currently operates four weekly flights between South Korea and Saipan. Qin said the Korean carrier is expected to increase service to daily flights during the upcoming holiday period before returning to its regular four-flight weekly schedule.

The MVA is also looking forward to the planned return of Philippine Airlines' Manila-Saipan service in October, which would further strengthen the CNMI's international air links as visitor arrivals continue to recover.

Qin urged the tourism industry to continue working together as more international flights return.

"I believe we need to work harder and work together to welcome all the tourists. The situation is hard, but we can show to our tourists our special spirits from the island. We are rebuilt. We are recovering."