Qantas will double its direct service between Brisbane and Koror, Palau, to two return flights a week over the peak season, after signing a new agreement with the Federal Government to continue operating the Palau Paradise Express.
From December 2026, the Palau Paradise Express will operate twice weekly for the first time, giving travellers the option of a four-day trip to Palau.
The service, which Qantas launched with one weekly flight in December 2024, has opened up a new leisure market for Australians. Carrying more than 15,400 passengers since its commencement, the flights have quadrupled passenger traffic to Palau from Australia and Oceania from pre-COVID levels.
The second weekly service will operate from December 2026 to the end of March 2027, departing Brisbane on Wednesday and Saturday and returning from Koror on Thursday and Sunday*. The service will be operated by a Boeing 737-800, with a flight time to Koror of around six hours, and connections available across the Qantas domestic network.
Palau is a nation of more than 300 islands in the Western Pacific, surrounded by coral reefs and best known for the UNESCO-listed Rock Islands. Most of its pristine waters are protected as a marine sanctuary, and its wreck dives, reef walls and jellyfish lakes sit close enough together to allow visitors to make the most of a shorter visit.
Qantas CEO International Cam Wallace said the second weekly flight will make it easier than ever for Australians to experience Palau.
“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. 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.”
Palau Visitors Authority Director Kadoi Ruluked warmly welcomes Qantas’ launch of a second weekly service.
“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. 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.”
