New flight route between Australia and Palau

Australia and Palau are partnering together to expand connectivity in the Pacific with a new non-stop flight service between Brisbane, Australia and Koror, Palau.

The Palau Paradise Express, operated by Nauru Airlines, will be a direct flight between Australia and Palau and will help create new opportunities for regional tourism and trade.

This year Australia and Palau celebrate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, building on decades of cooperation in the Blue Pacific.

This initiative will help deepen the warm bonds between our countries and peoples.

Together we are committed to achieving a stronger, more connected Pacific region through sustainable tourism, trade, and business links.

The new route provides yet another avenue for people and businesses to move between Australia and the North Pacific - complementing the 'Island Hopper' flight between Brisbane, Nauru, Tarawa, Majuro, Pohnpei and Koror.

The first Palau Paradise Express flight departs in May.

Nauru Airlines will operate the flight until 31 October 2024. Eligible Australian, Pacific, and Asian airlines will be invited to participate in a limited tender to operate the route through October 2025.

Quote attributable to President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. President of the Republic of Palau:

"We are grateful for Australia's strong partnership and efforts to promote tourism and trade, and to capitalize on government, business, and community linkages.

"The Australia-Pacific Partnerships for Aviation Program (P4A) has opened a new level of cooperation between Palau and Australia. Our combined efforts up to this point have laid the groundwork to realize new opportunities.

"This next phase with Nauru Airlines connects us to other nations within the South Pacific and Micronesia. We appreciate the chance to work with our Pacific family to find ways to ensure we prosper together."

Quote attributable to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator the Hon Penny Wong:

"Australia and Palau share common values and together we are delivering on our commitment to strengthening the Pacific.

"Thanks to President Whipps' strong support, we can take this important step towards strengthening economic growth in the region.

"Australia has heard the calls from Pacific leaders for deeper connections and easier movement around the region, and is working to improve access, mobility, and migration opportunities.

"Through the P4A program, we are partnering with countries in the Pacific for a safer, more resilient and sustainable aviation sector."

Media note: Imagery is available via: Palau imagery - DFAT Media Library.