JAS maiden flight brings in tourists from Haneda
At least 260 travelers from Japan are expected to arrive on Saipan this weekend as Japan Air System launches its first international flight following a lengthy negotiation with the Kinki Nippon Tourist Co., Ltd.
KNT, the parent company of the Pacific Development Inc., Ltd. together with Japanese companies and government officials exhausted all efforts to proceed with the much-delayed JAS international flights.
Originally, PDI Vice President Jesus T. Guerrero said JAS flies domestic routes only until the deal was ironed out, adding that Saipan was chosen to be the first international charter flight out of Haneda and the maiden charter is scheduled to arrive at the Saipan International Airport at 3am on Feb. 17.
The Japan Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport recently agreed to the new international flights from what was previously a domestic terminal, the PDI vice president explained.
“The ministry allowed the new international flight to fly under restrictions and specific conditions on flight paths, hours, capacity, noise, and additional staffing at the airport,” Mr. Guerrero said.
The new charter flights from Haneda to destinations including Guam, Hawaii, Korea, and China will be the subject of a Japanese national advertising campaign.
Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio acknowledged JAS’ persistent effort to make Saipan as the destination for its inaugural flight. “It is my hope that the upcoming voyage will be the first of many to our islands and that your continued consideration toward the Northern Marianas will be mutually beneficial to JAS and the CNMI,” the governor said.
The Commonwealth Ports Authority earlier provided JAS officials with copies of airport regulations and incentive programs should they decide to make regular flights to CNMI.
CPA Deputy Director Regino Celis said JAS’ maiden flight to Saipan will be one of the several negotiations currently being undertaken by CPA officials in hopes to promote Northern Marianas as a tourist destination. (EGA)
