Australia and Palau will soon be linked with direct flights for the first time, with Nauru Airlines operating a new non-stop service between Brisbane Airport and the Pacific nation from 21 May.
The new weekly service brings the tiny island country within easy reach of Queensland’s capital, with a six-hour flight departing Brisbane on Tuesdays at 11.30pm and arriving back in Brisbane on Thursdays at 5.30am – which is good news for those with onward flights ex-BNE.
Launch fares for the B737 service start from $999 return.
Brisbane Airport’s 31st direct international destination and 14th Pacific port, Palau is part of the Micronesia region and is best known for its beautiful beaches and underwater landscapes.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the Pacific nation would now be “a very easy place to add to your bucket list”.
“This new direct service not only enhances Brisbane Airport’s role as Australia’s premier gateway to the Pacific but also invites adventurers to embark on a seamless journey to one of the region’s most inviting destinations,” he added.
“Palau is Brisbane’s 31st direct international destination, with the pre-pandemic count standing at 33. Over the past two years, huge efforts have been made to rebuild the network, ensuring Queenslanders are connected to the world.”
Named the Palau Paradise Express, the new service promises to help boost both two-way tourism and trade.
“We are delighted to introduce a direct service from Brisbane straight to Palau, opening new opportunities for tourism development and air freight from Australia and New Zealand via the Brisbane gateway,” Nauru Airlines CEO Brett Gebers said.
“This is a key addition to our broader Micronesian network and we know direct air access from Brisbane will be well received by travellers and the travel industry.”
Three decades in the making
With Australia and Palau celebrating 30 years of diplomatic relations in 2024, the announcement comes at a good time.
“Australia and Palau share common values and together we are delivering on our commitment to strengthening the Pacific,” Minister for Foreign Affairs, Senator Penny Wong said.
“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.”
The new link will receive support from the Australian Government through its Australia-Pacific Partnerships for Aviation Program (P4A).
“Through the PFA program, we are partnering with countries in the Pacific for a safer, more resilient and sustainable aviation sector,” Wong said.
Check out how Brisbane Airport plans to make long-term parking at its P2 car park easier.
