PALAU PARADISE EXPRESS SET FOR TAKE OFF WITH THE FLYING KANGAROO

Joining the airline's growing international map, the Pacific Island Nation of Palau is made up of over 300 islands and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Listed Rock Islands. It marks the national carrier's fifth international route to launch from the Sunshine State in the last 12 months following the recent commencement of services from Brisbane to Vanuatu and Manila.

The service, known as the 'Palau Paradise Express', will operate as part of a contract awarded to Qantas by the Federal Government and will help maintain strong trade, tourism and people to people links between Australia and Palau.

Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace says the airline was thrilled by the response to the announcement of the new route last month.

"When we first announced the 'Palau Paradise Express' in October, we saw an immediate surge in website traffic for searches to the destination, which shows the huge interest from travellers for new, more undiscovered destinations."

"We know Australians are always looking for unique holiday spots and we're so excited to offer Qantas customers the chance to explore Palau with our new flights."

Director of Palau Visitors Authority Kadoi Ruluked says: "We are excited to welcome Qantas' new direct service between Brisbane and Palau, further enhancing the strong relationship between our two nations."

"This connection will make it even easier for Australians to explore Palau's pristine waters, world-famous dive sites, lush tropical jungles, war history and authentic cultures. The 'Palau Paradise Express' will not only boost tourism but also strengthen trade, cultural exchanges and economic ties between Palau and Australia."

"We look forward to sharing our island's natural beauty with Qantas customers and welcoming more tourists and business travellers to experience the very best Palau has to offer."

To mark the milestone, Qantas is offering customers a special economy launch fare starting from AUD$899 return, available until 11:59pm Tuesday 12 November at Qantas.com.

Route fast facts:

• Inaugural flight will depart from Brisbane on Saturday7 December 2024.
• Flights will depart Brisbane weekly with a Boeing 737 aircraft.
• Average flight time is 6 hours.
• Brisbane to Palau service will operate as QF165.
• Palau to Brisbane service will operate as QF166.

Destination fast facts:

• Palau is made up of over 300 islands and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Listed Rock Islands.
• Palau requires all visitors to sign the Palau Pledge upon arrival, a commitment to protecting the island's ecological and cultural heritage during their stay.
• Palau is a world-renowned premier diving destination, however, there is much more to do beyond diving.

• Palauan culture embraces matrilineal traditions. Women have traditional authority over land and oversee clan finances.
• Palau created the world's first shark sanctuary in 2009, protecting around 600,000 square kilometers of ocean.
• Palau is home to Jellyfish Lake, where millions of non-stinging jellyfish migrate across the lake daily.