(IN SHORT) Qantas is launching a new route connecting Brisbane to Palau, marking its fifth international destination added from Queensland in the past year. The “Palau Paradise Express,” scheduled to commence on December 7, will provide weekly direct flights to this Pacific Island nation renowned for its UNESCO-listed Rock Islands and unique marine environments. Qantas is offering a special launch fare to celebrate the new service, which is part of a government-supported initiative to strengthen tourism and economic ties between Australia and Palau.
(PRESS RELEASE) Sydney, Australia, 2024-Nov-9 — /Travel PR News/ — Qantas has opened bookings for its new route to Palau, a pristine Pacific island nation known for its UNESCO-listed Rock Islands and unique ecological offerings. The inaugural “Palau Paradise Express” flight will depart from Brisbane in December, marking the airline’s fifth new international route from Queensland in the past year, including recent launches to Vanuatu and Manila. Operated weekly by a Boeing 737, this new service strengthens tourism and economic ties between Australia and Palau as part of a contract with the Australian government.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace expressed excitement about travelers’ response to the new route, noting a surge in online interest for Palau as an “undiscovered” destination for Australian holiday-goers. Kadoi Ruluked, Director of the Palau Visitors Authority, welcomed the direct flights, emphasizing the opportunity for Australians to experience Palau’s lush landscapes, world-class dive sites, and rich cultural heritage, while also supporting trade and cultural exchanges.
To celebrate the new route, Qantas is offering a special launch fare from AUD$899 for bookings made before November 12 on its website. The inaugural flight will depart on December 7, with flights running every Saturday. The trip takes approximately six hours.
Key Route Information:
- Weekly service from Brisbane on Saturdays starting December 7, 2024
- Operated by Boeing 737 with a flight time of about 6 hours
- Outbound flight as QF165; return flight as QF166
Palau Highlights:
- Composed of over 300 islands with UNESCO-protected sites
- Home to the Palau Pledge, a visitor commitment to conserving local culture and environment
- Known for its premier diving spots and natural wonders like Jellyfish Lake
- The world’s first shark sanctuary established in 2009, covering 600,000 sq km
Media Contact:
email: qantasmedia@qantas.com.au
Source: Qantas
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