Concepcion: A lot of good things happening in tourism industry

A lot of good things are happening in the tourism industry as things are slowly picking up in the CNMI, according to Marianas Visitors Authority managing director Christopher A. Concepcion.

Speaking at a press briefing last week, Concepcion said Hong Kong Airlines’ first flight back to Saipan since the COVID-19 pandemic is April 29, 2024 and that they are planning to greet them upon arrival at the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport.

He said a lot of behind-the-scenes talks happened in the tourism industry and one of them was the back-and-forth with United Airlines, pushing them to make the Japan flight a daytime flight.

The managing director said United Airlines finally agreed to have that depart daytime out of Saipan and out of Narita effective May 7, 2024.

“We project them to increase arrivals from Japan because it’s just a much more convenient schedule,” Concepcion said.

With respect to Jeju Air, he said it has twice daily flights and they’ve communicated to MVA that they are looking to operate a third daily flight during high peak summer season.

Concepcion told Saipan Tribune yesterday that this development shows an increase in market demand.

“We are waiting on official word from Jeju Air on their plans for now,” he said.

The managing director also disclosed in last week’s press briefing that they also got an Economic Development Administration grant and that they are working closely with the Office of Planning and Development for the Marpi Tourist Sites improvements Project.

OPD is a co-grantee for the EDA grant.

Regarding the Taste of the Marianas next month, Concepcion said it’s going to be a big one—its 25th anniversary.

He said Taste of the Marianas is a very successful event in partnership with Hotel Association of the NMI and other stakeholders.

At this year’s event, which will begin May 4, there are 29 booths at the American Memorial Park.

“So, a lot of good stuff happening for tourism as well,” said Concepcion, adding that MVA works closely with Gov. Arnold I. Palacios, Lt. Gov. David M. Apatang, and especially with Finance Secretary Tracy B. Norita on making sure things are turning and they have enough money to spend to market the islands because it’s highly competitive and it’s very expensive to market the CNMI out there.

Christopher A. Concepcion