Nauru Airlines has received extended support from the Australian government, securing backing until October 2025 for its Australia-North Pacific Connector route. This move aligns with Australia’s commitment to strengthening transport links across the Pacific, facilitating trade, tourism, and economic development. Under this arrangement, Nauru Airlines will continue its weekly service connecting the central and northern Pacific regions to major destinations, including Australia, Asia, and Fiji.
Since its launch in 2022, the Australia-North Pacific Connector has offered essential connectivity through its route from Brisbane, travelling via Nauru, Tarawa, Majuro, and Pohnpei, and concluding in Palau. This service is part of Australia’s Pacific Flights Program, which aims to enhance air connectivity across the Pacific Islands in response to regional needs and development goals.
Nauru Airlines CEO Brett Gebers highlighted the airline’s long-standing role in the region, noting that the airline has been serving Pacific Islands and connecting them with Australia for over five decades. “Micronesia and the central and northern Pacific is Nauru Airlines’ home,” said Gebers, reflecting on the airline’s role in supporting the economies and communities of these islands.
The airline initially launched its island-hopping services more than 12 years ago, connecting Brisbane with Nauru, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, and the Federated States of Micronesia. While the service was paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, it resumed in October 2022 as the Australia-North Pacific Connector, serving as a critical link for passengers and goods across the region.
In December 2023, the service was further extended to include Palau, enhancing regional connectivity. Gebers emphasised the value of these connections, stating that air services between Pacific nations and Australia provide more than just a means of transport for tourists, but also facilitate trade, commerce, and broader economic opportunities in the region.
Despite the success of its Pacific connector route, Nauru Airlines will end its direct Brisbane-Palau route this month as its contract concludes. The national carrier Qantas is set to take over this service, ensuring continuity for travellers. Gebers expressed satisfaction with the transition to Qantas, affirming that Nauru Airlines will work closely with Qantas to ensure a smooth handover with minimal disruption for passengers.
The extended partnership with Australia underscores the critical role of aviation in the Pacific’s development, reinforcing the importance of accessible and reliable air travel to support growth and resilience within these island economies.
Main image courtesy: Nauru Airlines website.
