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CNMI to see increased flights from S. Korea
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Posted on Jun 12 2008
Saipan could soon see a much needed increase in flights from Korea, Marianas Visitor Authority board chair Jerry Tan said during the organization’s monthly meeting Thursday, a jump that could significantly bolster the island’s tourism sector.
Currently, Saipan receives four flights a week from Incheon, South Korea, yet Tan said Asiana Airlines is poised to change that to a daily schedule.
“From all indications from Asiana Air, they will start increasing the daytime flights, which started last May, into a daily flight,” Tan said during the meeting, held at the World Resort.
Tan noted that the rate of Asiana flights from Busan could also see an occasional rise from four per week to six “in certain busy months, but not year round.”
Based on airline seat availability, Tan said the MVA estimates that Saipan could see up to 165,000 visitors from Korea in the coming year.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial was on hand at the meeting and applauded the boost in flights, saying such increases are key to improving the island’s tourism trade.
“We’re focusing on our effort to increase air seats because that’s the medium for more tourists to come and visit the CNMI but we have to develop a strong relationship of course with the airlines and the travel agents,” Fitial said.
Meanwhile, the MVA elected a host of new board members at the meeting. The newly elected members include Yoichi Matsumura of Pacific Development, Kazusuke Fukuju of Tasi Tours & Transportation and Pacific Micronesia Tours, B.K. Park of the Fiesta Resort and Spa, and Wayne Pagellan or the Ladera International School of Saipan.
