SYDNEY- Qantas (QF) has extended its direct Brisbane (BNE) to Koror, Palau (ROR) flight for another year after strong demand. The route, launched in December 2024, has already reshaped connectivity between Australia and the Pacific island nation.
Branded the “Palau Paradise Express,” the flight will continue under a Federal Government contract with Qantas, maintaining vital trade, tourism, and cultural ties between Australia and Palau.
Photo: QantasQantas Extends Flights to Palau
The extension of Qantas’ Brisbane to Palau service reflects a surge in demand that has exceeded expectations. Palau recorded a 113% rise in visitor arrivals during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
Australian travelers have been at the heart of this boom, with three out of four arriving in Palau for the first time. This strong performance reinforces Palau’s growing reputation as a premier eco-tourism destination.
Palau’s appeal lies in its pristine natural environment and cultural heritage. The UNESCO-listed Rock Islands, rich coral reefs, and abundant marine life continue to attract divers, adventure seekers, and luxury travellers alike.
With tourism forming a cornerstone of Palau’s economy, the direct service ensures accessibility and stable growth while supporting local operators.
The weekly flight departs Brisbane on Saturdays, operated by a Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft, with a direct 6-hour journey to Palau.
The schedule is designed to offer seamless access for Australian travellers seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration. For Qantas, this route strengthens its regional presence while catering to the rising demand for unique travel experiences.
Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace emphasized the importance of the service, noting that Australian travellers have embraced the destination enthusiastically.
The airline sees the route not only as a commercial success but also as a way to enhance Australia’s links with Pacific nations.
Photo: By Bidgee, CC BY-SA 3.0 au, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=86628332Tourism and Economic Impact
Palau’s tourism industry has seen substantial benefits since the introduction of the direct route. March and April 2025 delivered record growth, with March arrivals rising by 146% year on year.
This rapid growth has fueled local tourism enterprises, from guided sailing tours and cultural experiences to World War II history excursions on Peleliu. Director of the Palau Visitors Authority, Kadoi Ruluked, highlighted the positive outcomes for the nation’s economy.
The direct service has generated increased demand across the hospitality sector, creating new opportunities for local businesses and strengthening Palau’s position as a sustainable travel hub.
Photo: QantasPalau’s Rising Global Profile
Once considered a niche destination, Palau is quickly earning global recognition for its marine biodiversity, eco-conscious policies, and unspoiled landscapes.
The country has long been admired for its environmental protections, including strict sustainability standards for tourism operators.
The direct Brisbane–Koror route has made the islands more accessible than ever, helping transform Palau from a hidden gem into one of the most talked-about travel destinations in 2025.
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