United Airlines has launched its inaugural flight between Tokyo’s Narita Airport and Palau.
More than 100 travelers, including Palau President Surangel S. Whipps Jr., were on the Wednesday night flight from Japan that was greeted by water cannons and traditional Palauan music and cultural dancers.
Whipps said the flight marked a milestone in expanding opportunities for travel, commerce and cultural exchange.
United said the new flight complements the airline’s existing service to Palau from Guam and Manila.
The flight departs Tokyo on Wednesdays and Saturdays and returns to Japan on Thursdays and Sundays.
The year-round service will connect travelers between Palau and the continental U.S. through Tokyo from United hubs in New York/Newark, Houston, Denver, Los Angeles and San Francisco.