The first international commercial flight to return to the CNMI since Super Typhoon Sinlaku struck the Northern Marianas in April touched down early Sunday morning, marking what tourism officials described as a major milestone in the islands' recovery.
Jeju Air's flight from South Korea arrived at the Francisco C. Ada-Saipan International Airport shortly before 2am last June 21 and was welcomed by staff from the Marianas Visitors Authority, cultural performers, and signs greeting visitors with "Hafa Adai" and "Tirow."
MVA Marketing manager Andy Qin, speaking at the airport, said the flight's arrival represented an important step toward rebuilding the tourism industry.
"This is the biggest step for the tourism recovery for our island," Qin said.
Asked about the $1.5 million sole-source agreement approved by the MVA board to support Jeju Air service, Qin said maintaining air connectivity with South Korea was critical.
"We try to not disconnect with our island to the international area," he said. "So, it's also an opportunity for us to keep a connection with Korea. Because Korea is our main market, tourism market."
Qin said he believed the inaugural flight was operating at or near full capacity. While some passengers were likely returning residents, he said future flights are expected to be dominated by visitors.
"The continued flight is almost most like 90% is tourists," Qin said.
He added that MVA and its industry partners have been working to prepare tourism sites and businesses for visitors following the typhoon.
"We are getting by phase. It's ready for the tourists, little by little," Qin said. "MVA is [closely] working with our local business partners and all the community to try to make it ready as soon as possible."
In a statement to Marianas Press, Commonwealth Ports Authority executive director Esther Ada welcomed the return of international air service.
"We are pleased with the return of Jeju Air, bringing international flights back to Saipan after the typhoon, a very important step in the continued recovery and return of visitors to our islands," Ada said. "We value our partnership with Jeju and are grateful for their continued support and we look forward to the additional international air service in the coming months."
The flight's return comes after the MVA board approved a $1.5-million sole-source contract with Jeju Air during a special meeting last June 11. The agreement is intended to maintain direct air service between South Korea and Saipan through Oct. 24, 2026, following the withdrawal of T'Way Air and disruptions caused by Super Typhoon Sinlaku.
According to MVA, South Korea remains the CNMI's largest visitor market, accounting for roughly 70% of total arrivals. Under the revised operating plan, Jeju Air is expected to operate four weekly flights for most of the service period, with daily service during selected peak summer and holiday travel periods using 189-seat aircraft.
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