Qantas launches inaugural flight to Palau: The ‘Palau Paradise Express’

Qantas now offers a new direct flight service from Brisbane to Palau. The inaugural flight took off from Brisbane on Dec. 7, establishing a weekly route that connects Australia with Pristine Paradise.

This route, known as the ‘Palau Paradise Express,’ aims to enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between Australia and Palau. It is a contract awarded to Qantas by the Australian Federal Government as part of a larger outreach to bring Australia, Palau and other Micronesian states closer together and supports people-to-people links, development and economic outcomes, according to Australian officials.

The route had been serviced previously by Air Niugini before the contract with the Australian government expired. Nauru Airlines filled the gap in the interim as the Australian government ran through its procurement process to identify a longer-term provider of PPE services. It was later announced that Qantas would be the new operator.

“The introduction of Qantas flights to Palau is a game-changer for our tourism industry. It makes our beautiful islands more accessible to travelers from Australia and beyond, allowing us to share our rich culture and stunning natural beauty, with a wider audience,” said Kadoi Ruluked, managing director of the Palau Visitors Authority.

A Qantas Airlines plane is guided to the jetway at Palau International Airport as it makes its inaugural flight on the Palau Paradise Express. Photo courtesy Palau Visitors Authority.

President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. said the new service opens an extraordinary destination for Australian travelers but also fosters stronger ties between Palau and Australia, promoting mutual growth and cultural appreciation.

He also thanked Australia for the support in enhancing connectivity, saying, “We are thankful for our partnership with Australia in bringing an airline with a wide network to Palau. This collaboration diversifies our tourism offerings with a valued partner but also strengthens the bonds between our nations.”

Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace has commented: “When we first announced the ‘Palau Paradise Express’ in October, we saw an immediate surge in website traffic for searches to the destination, which shows the huge interest from travelers for new, more undiscovered destinations. We know Australians are always looking for unique holiday spots and we’re so excited to offer Qantas customers the chance to explore Palau with our new flights.” mbj

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Qantas launches inaugural flight to Palau: The ‘Palau Paradise Express’