Saipan to See Continued South Korean Flights as t’way Air and Jeju Air Reinforce Services

In a significant boost for tourism to the Northern Mariana Islands, South Korea’s t’way Air and Jeju Air have confirmed they will continue their summer flight services to Saipan. This comes after productive negotiations with the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), ensuring uninterrupted connections for travelers from Seoul to the picturesque island.

Continued Services by t’way Air and Jeju Air to Saipan

Both South Korean carriers play a crucial role in facilitating tourism to the region. t’way Air will operate daily flights between Seoul Incheon and Saipan from March 29 until October 24, 2026, ensuring regular connectivity to the island throughout the summer travel season. Jeju Air, however, will temporarily suspend its daily flights from March 29 to April 29, 2026, due to scheduling constraints. These flights will resume on April 30, continuing daily services for the remainder of the summer schedule.

The decision to keep these routes open follows a brief period of uncertainty after the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands (HANMI) raised concerns over potential airline pullouts. In early February, HANMI warned that the departure of low-cost carriers (LCCs) like t’way Air and Jeju Air would cause a significant reduction in capacity to the island, directly impacting tourism. A petition was submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation to seek a cabotage restriction waiver and essential air service designation for the route.

However, the MVA quickly intervened, with managing director Jamika Taijeron addressing the issue by stating that HANMI’s concerns were premature and inaccurate. The MVA’s intervention helped clarify the situation, and the tourism authority’s proactive response ensured the continuity of these vital air services, alleviating potential disruptions for both business and leisure travelers.

Tourism Trends and Challenges for Saipan

Saipan, the largest island in the Northern Mariana Islands, has long been a popular destination for South Korean tourists, accounting for over 60% of foreign tourist arrivals in 2025. However, recent data paints a less optimistic picture. South Korean arrivals to the island dropped by 40% in December 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This decline is a concerning trend for the region’s tourism sector, particularly as South Korean tourists are a significant contributor to the economy of Saipan.

Furthermore, the MVA reports that flight frequencies between Seoul Incheon and Saipan also decreased from 88 flights in December 2024 to 60 flights in December 2025. Several factors have contributed to these challenges, including the strong U.S. dollar and increasing competition from emerging beach destinations like Japan and Vietnam, which have attracted travelers seeking alternative coastal experiences. Additionally, the merger of Korean Air and Asiana Airlines has impacted seat capacity obligations between South Korea and Guam International, further complicating the flight schedule to the region.

Efforts to Retain Air Service to Saipan

To help mitigate these challenges and support the retention of air services, the local government has taken steps to ensure that airlines remain committed to the region. The local legislature allocated USD 750,000 from a previously restricted fund of USD 1 million to the MVA to support air service retention. This funding will be used to maintain vital connectivity to Saipan, ensuring that the island’s tourism industry continues to receive the support it needs despite the challenges.

In comparison to other tourism-dependent regions like Guam, which has proposed up to USD 60 million in tourism support, the Northern Mariana Islands are working with limited resources. However, the dedicated efforts of the MVA and local lawmakers demonstrate the commitment to ensuring that Saipan continues to be a desirable destination for international visitors, particularly from South Korea, which remains a key market.

Saipan’s Tourism Outlook and Future Prospects

Despite the challenges, the Northern Mariana Islands’ tourism sector remains resilient. The MVA continues to promote Saipan as a premier travel destination with beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and a welcoming atmosphere. The ongoing commitment from airlines like t’way Air and Jeju Air to maintain services to Saipan is crucial for the island’s tourism recovery and long-term sustainability.

In the coming months, Saipan is expected to see a gradual recovery in South Korean tourist numbers, particularly with the resumption of Jeju Air’s daily flights at the end of April. The island is also working on expanding its marketing efforts to attract a broader international audience, diversifying its tourist base, and offering new experiences to travelers.

For now, the key to Saipan’s tourism future lies in the continued cooperation between airlines, the MVA, and local businesses. With efforts to stabilize air services and boost tourism support, Saipan has the potential to bounce back from its recent setbacks and reclaim its place as a beloved destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Conclusion: Navigating Challenges in Saipan’s Tourism Sector

As Saipan navigates through a challenging period for its tourism sector, the continued services of t’way Air and Jeju Air provide a crucial lifeline for both tourists and businesses in the region. While the decline in South Korean arrivals is concerning, the proactive steps taken by the MVA and local government demonstrate a commitment to securing the island’s future in global tourism. With renewed flight schedules and increasing support for the tourism industry, Saipan has a strong foundation for recovery and growth in the coming years.