Qantas Launches New Route to Palau: The ‘Palau Paradise Express’
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Qantas customers can now book flights to the airline’s newest destination, the stunning Pacific Island Nation of Palau. With fares on sale this week, the inaugural service is set to take off from Brisbane in December, marking an exciting addition to Qantas’ growing international map.
A New Destination on the Horizon
Palau, a nation comprised of over 300 islands, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock Islands. This new route, known as the ‘Palau Paradise Express,’ is the fifth international route launched by Qantas from Brisbane in the past year, following recent services to Vanuatu and Manila. The service is part of a contract awarded to Qantas by the Federal Government aimed at strengthening trade, tourism, and cultural links between Australia and Palau.
Enthusiastic Reception
Qantas CEO International, Cam Wallace, expressed his excitement about the new route: “When we first announced the ‘Palau Paradise Express’ in October, we saw an immediate surge in website traffic for searches to the destination, which shows the huge interest from travellers for new, more undiscovered destinations. We know Australians are always looking for unique holiday spots, and we’re so excited to offer Qantas customers the chance to explore Palau with our new flights.”
Strengthening Ties
Kadoi Ruluked, Director of Palau Visitors Authority, also shared his enthusiasm: “We are excited to welcome Qantas’ new direct service between Brisbane and Palau, further enhancing the strong relationship between our two nations. This connection will make it even easier for Australians to explore Palau’s pristine waters, world-famous dive sites, lush tropical jungles, war history, and authentic cultures. The ‘Palau Paradise Express’ will boost tourism and strengthen trade, cultural exchanges, and economic ties between Palau and Australia.”
Special Launch Fare
To celebrate the launch, Qantas is offering a special economy fare starting from AUD$899 return, available until 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, 12 November, at Qantas.com.
Route Fast Facts
- Inaugural Flight: Departs Brisbane on Saturday, 7 December 2024.
- Frequency: Weekly flights from Brisbane.
- Aircraft: Boeing 737.
- Flight Time: Approximately six hours.
- Flight Numbers: Brisbane to Palau (QF165), Palau to Brisbane (QF166).
- UNESCO World Heritage: Palau is home to the Rock Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Palau Pledge: Upon arrival, all visitors must sign the Palau Pledge, committing to protect the island’s ecological and cultural heritage.
- Diving Paradise: Palau is a premier diving destination that offers much beyond diving.
- Cultural Richness: Palauan culture embraces matrilineal traditions, with women holding traditional authority over land and clan finances.
- Shark Sanctuary: In 2009, Palau created the world’s first shark sanctuary, protecting around 600,000 square kilometres of ocean.
- Jellyfish Lake: Home to millions of non-stinging jellyfish that migrate across the lake daily.
