Governor elated with Rota charter flights

Gov. Benigno R. Fitial recently congratulated Pacific Development, Inc. and its parent company, Kinki Nippon Tourist Co., Ltd., for the successful start of their charter flights to Rota.

The islands’ chief executive added that the 40 charter flights serviced by Continental Airlines in the next two years will be a big boost not only to the economy of the CNMI’s southernmost island but the entire Commonwealth as well.

“New charter flights for Rota represent a shining bright spot for the CNMI economy. The new flights also represent a new travel opportunity for Japanese tourists who wish to get away from hectic city life and get back to the tranquility offered by a peaceful natural environment and a warm, friendly island culture.”

The governor said unlike Guam or Hawaii, “Rota offers splendid opportunities for eco-tourism and is devoid of excessive commercialism.”

PDI president Yoichi Matsumura thanked the governor for his administration’s help in making the Rota charter flights a reality. He added that his company will continue to work closely with government to help grow the islands’ tourism industry.

“Finally, the dream project of KNT and the people of Rota has become a reality. We are very happy that we were able to make this contribution to the CNMI.”

He also agreed with Fitial’s comment that Rota offers a totally distinct experience for tourists, one that allows them to commune better with the natural environment.

“As excited as we are with the first Inaugural flight we will continue to work with the people of Rota, Mayor Joseph S. Inos and the Marianas Visitors Authority in promoting ‘Nature Treasure Island’ Rota and the rest of the CNMI.”

He added that so impressed were passengers of the inaugural flight with the natural and beauty of Rota that they themselves were conscious about throwing garbage on the island.

“One of the themes for the Rota trip is to entice the protection of the nature and its environment. While tourists enjoy the nature of Rota, some brought their garbage back to Japan, such as empty cans and bottles,” he said.

The 40 Rota charter flights are expected to bring in some 8,000 tourists to Rota in about a year. KNT has chartered Continental Airlines to bring in the new Rota flights. Continental Airlines is using its 155-seater Boeing 737 aircraft to service the island.