Qantas Extends Direct Brisbane-Palau Route Till Dec 26

In a significant development in Pacific flight connectivity, Qantas has confirmed continuing direct flights between Brisbane and Palau for another year, to December 2026. This decision comes in light of a successful start for the service which began in December 2024. The extension, secured through a contract with the Australian Federal Government, aims to bolster trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections between the two countries.

The ‘Palau Paradise Express’ Takes Flight

The service, aptly named the ‘Palau Paradise Express,’ will continue to operate weekly on a Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft. The flight departs from Brisbane on a Saturday, offering a convenient six-hour journey to Koror, Palau’s capital. The route has already proven to be a popular choice for travellers, evidenced by a remarkable 113% increase in Palau’s visitor arrivals from Australia in the first six months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. The airline noted that Palau has become one of the most talked-about destinations among Australians in 2025.

This direct air link, designated as QF165 from Brisbane to Palau and QF166 for the return journey, has simplified travel for Australians and provided a significant boost to Palau’s tourism economy.

Strengthening Pacific Ties

Minister for Pacific Island Affairs Pat Conroy highlighted the importance of this relationship, stating, “With the Palau Paradise Express set to soar for another year, our relationship with Palau will continue to reach new heights as we deepen the economic and people to people links between our two countries.”

Echoing this sentiment, President Surangel S. Whipps, Jr. of the Republic of Palau expressed gratitude for the ongoing support. “On behalf of the people of Palau, I extend a heartfelt mesulang (thank you) to the people and government of Australia for supporting the Palau Paradise Express,” he said. “It is strengthening tourism, trade, and our bonds as members of the Pacific family.” Assistant Minister Nita Green also noted that the route’s success is a “clear example of Australia’s commitment to partnering with our Pacific neighbours.”

Qantas Australia Palau Flights: A Boost for Tourism

The strong market demand and significant growth in Australian visitation have been key drivers for this extension. Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace emphasised the airline’s commitment, stating, “This strong demand reinforces our commitment to connecting Australians with unique destinations and supporting Palau’s growing tourism industry.” He added that it has been “incredibly rewarding to see so many Australians discovering this destination for the first time since we launched the route, and the response has been phenomenal.”

The positive impact is also being felt locally in Palau. According to Kadoi Ruluked, director of the Palau Visitors Authority, “Australian travellers have really embraced the Qantas route, with many visiting Palau for the first time to explore our spectacular dive sites. Local tour operators are already seeing the benefits, with strong interest across a range of experiences from traditional sailing tours around the Rock Islands to WWII history adventures on Peleliu.”

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