Koror, Palau – Alii Palau Airlines, linking Palau with Singapore, has temporarily grounded flights until Jan. 28, citing “operational matters.”
The carrier, previously employing Drukair charters twice weekly, last flew Dec. 14. A letter to Palau’s Aviation Bureau notified of the suspension and proposed resumption after Jan. 28.
Director Glenn Seid attributed the pause to decreased demand caused by Singapore’s rising COVID-19 cases, expressing optimism for a February rebound.
Meanwhile, Lan Mei Airlines, operating Macau-Palau charters, flew in December but opted for a January hiatus, resuming in February. Cambodia Air, offering the only current charter service, saw at least seven cancellations last month. With Alii Palau also grounded, January faces a three-airline absence, potentially impacting visitor numbers.
However, Air Niugini and Nauru Airlines maintain normal operations, and a new Palau-Hong Kong route is on the horizon.