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Qantas is set to double its services to Palau over the peak season as the route is extended for another year.
The “Palau Paradise Express” service, which Qantas began operating in 2024, will increase to two weekly flights from Brisbane starting in December. The route has carried more than 15,400 passengers since its launch, quadrupling pre-COVID traffic to Palau from Australia and Oceania.
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“Palau has been one of the standout destinations in our short-haul international network since 2024, and the extra service is a direct response to growing demand for these incredible islands,” said Qantas International CEO Cam Wallace.
“Two services a week give Australians more choice about how long they spend in Palau. You can now fly out on a Wednesday, get four days on the reef and be home by Sunday.
“We’re proud to be working with the Federal Government and our partners in Palau to encourage more Australian visitors and continue to boost local tourism.”
The six-hour flights from Brisbane to Koror are operated by 737-800 aircraft, and previously were handled by Nauru Airlines. They currently operate from Brisbane on Saturdays with a return on Sundays, and will be joined by a Wednesday/Thursday service until March.
According to Palau Visitors Authority Director Kadoi Ruluked, the new flights will allow for four-day stays in Palau rather than only week-long stays.
“Since Qantas took over the Palau Paradise Express in 2024, Australian visitation to Palau during our peak period has grown 107 per cent year on year,” he said.
“This added seasonal frequency will build on that momentum by giving travellers the flexibility to enjoy a shorter Palau getaway for the first time.
“Greater connectivity like this supports our efforts to grow tourism sustainably, delivering more opportunities for our local businesses and communities.”
Palau, which is part of Micronesia and lies north of Papua New Guinea and east of the Philippines, saw Australian travellers increase by 113 per cent year on year in the first six months of 2025.
The nation comprises around 300 islands, including the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands, and most of its waters are protected as a marine sanctuary.
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