Alii Palau Airlines Inaugural Flight From Singapore to Palau via Drukair

On November 23, 2023, Alii Palau Airlines made history with its inaugural flight to Palau.

Alii Palau Airlines Inaugural Flight From Singapore to Palau via Drukair

At 6:40 AM, on Thanksgiving Day, Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines, operated a flight chartered by Alii Palau Airlines, touching down at the Palau International Airport. This marked the beginning of a new air route connecting Palau to Asia and the global travel network.

palau president for inaugural flight

Among the passengers from Singapore, there were also the CEO of Drukair, Tandin Wangchuck, and the Director General of BCAA, Kinley Wangchuk from Bhutan. The inaugural flight, captained by Yab Dhondup Gyaltshen, was celebrated with a traditional water cannon salute at Palau International Airport. The team was warmly welcomed by the President of Palau, Surangel Whipps Jr. 

palau international airport drukair 23 nov

A short ceremony was held to commemorate the special occasion. During the ceremony, Akanksha Johri, the Chief Financial Officer of Alii Palau Airlines, announced the airline's plan to operate two flights per week starting in December, enhancing connectivity for passengers.

The inaugural flight ceremony witnessed the participation of distinguished representatives from national and state governments, diplomatic corps members, and a robust representation from the business community as well as the directors from Alii Palau Airlines. The leadership team of Alii Palau Airlines comprises Chairman James Goh, Chief Financial Officer Akanksha Johri, and board members Hayato Sugiyama, Glenn Seid, and Terence Ruluked. Their combined expertise and passion for aviation promised an exhilarating journey into the future of air travel. 

Airai Governor Norman Ngiratecheboet, a former manager at United Airlines, expressed optimism about the positive impact of Alii Palau Airlines on Palau's tourism sector. He highlighted how this new airline would facilitate visitor arrivals and contribute to the promotion of tourism packages in the State of Airai.

palau-drukair-inaugural-flight-cake

Alii Palau Airlines, offering direct service between Singapore and Palau, has opened up fresh travel opportunities for individuals from various Asian countries, Europe, and America to reach Palau conveniently through Singapore, a prominent aviation hub in Asia.

In addition to serving inbound travelers, Alii Palau Airlines also caters to Palauan residents traveling abroad, offering special rates for their journeys. 

On the same day, Changi International Airport also welcomes the inaugural flight from Palau to Singapore. Adding a touch of prestige and excitement, the Vice President of Palau, the esteemed Uduch Sengebau Senior, graced the occasion by taking the inaugural flight while transiting to her next destination. Her destination? India, where she was set to attend a powerful women's conference.

sin palau inaugural flight

But the excitement didn't end there! The directors of Alii Palau Airlines, the trailblazers behind this historic flight, were also on board, sharing in the euphoria of this inaugural voyage to Singapore. It was a momentous occasion that left an indelible mark on aviation history and underscored the significance of international connections and cultural exchanges. This new historic route will undoubtedly attract more travellers from all over the world to visit Singapore, one of the most important business and leisure travel destinations in Asia.

What is Alii Palau Airlines schedule for flights from Singapore to Palau?

From 23 November to 20 December 2023, flights between Singapore and Palau will operate once a week on Thursdays. From 21 December 2023, flights will be increased to twice-weekly on Thursdays and Sundays. 

Book your flight tickets to Palau here.



Related Posts

Singapore to Palau: Alii Palau Airlines Launches Historic Route...

You can now visit the Palau Paradise directly from Singapore!

Oct 27, 2023 16:17

Zanta Spa: The Hidden Sanctuary Just Five Minutes from Tiger’s...

Relax just five minutes from Tiger’s Nest at Zanta Spa, a peaceful Paro retreat perfect for non-hikers, those waiting...

Nov 25, 2025 16:39

Three Bhutanese Hotels Honoured with MICHELIN Keys 2025

Bhutan shines on the global stage as three of its luxury hotels—Gangtey Lodge, Amankora Bhutan, and Six Senses...

Oct 30, 2025 15:45

Bhutan Rises to Fourth in Condé Nast Traveller’s Best Countries...

Bhutan ranks fourth in Condé Nast Traveller’s Best Countries in the World list, celebrated for its serene landscapes,...

Oct 07, 2025 18:27

Bhutan Introduces National Monument Ticketing System for Seamless...

Bhutan has launched a new National Monument Ticketing System, allowing tourists to book entry tickets online for a...

Sep 25, 2025 16:08

Bhutan Honoured as Best Leading Heritage Destination at SATA 2025

Bhutan wins its first South Asian Travel Awards title, honoured as Best Leading Heritage Destination at SATA 2025 in Sri...

Sep 22, 2025 15:01

Latest

News

Bhutanese Creatives Shine in Vogue India’s November Issue

Bhutanese creatives take centre stage in Vogue India’s November issue, featuring an all-Bhutanese team of models, stylists, makeup artists...

Nov 28, 2025 11:19

Drukair Welcomes New Pilatus PC-24, Marking a Boost to Bhutan’s Aviation Capability

Drukair welcomes the new Pilatus PC-24 to its fleet, enhancing Bhutan’s aviation capability with improved short-runway performance,...

Nov 28, 2025 10:18

Features

Passion and Purpose: From Traditional Rituals to Wellness Doctor at Bhutan Spirit Sanctuary

From humble beginnings in Eastern Bhutan to guiding guests at a five-star wellness sanctuary, Dr. Kelzang Dorji shares how compassion,...

Nov 07, 2025 13:47

Breaking Barriers: Draktsho Students Showcase Their Art in Thimphu

Students from Draktsho East in Kanglung, Trashigang, are showcasing their artwork in Thimphu as part of Ani Pema Deki’s “A Woman with...

Oct 23, 2025 10:44

Business

Bhutan’s Clean Energy Boom and Future Power Outlook

Bhutan is entering a new era of clean energy with major commitments from Adani, Reliance, and Tata to develop large-scale hydro and solar...

Nov 24, 2025 13:07

Lee Kum Kee Expands Global Culinary Initiative to Bhutan

Lee Kum Kee launches its Global Culinary Immersion Programme in Bhutan, empowering Bhutanese youth through hands-on culinary exchange,...

Oct 14, 2025 07:12

Sports

Pema Norbu Makes History as Bhutan’s First ITF Masters Champion

Bhutanese tennis player Pema Norbu has made national history by winning the Men’s Singles Over-35 title at the ITF World Masters Tennis Tour...

Nov 20, 2025 12:21

NBA Stars Visit Bhutan: A Historic Slam Dunk for Local Basketball

For the first time in history, four NBA players have visited Bhutan, igniting nationwide excitement and inspiring a new generation of...

Aug 05, 2025 10:10

Tourism

Zanta Spa: The Hidden Sanctuary Just Five Minutes from Tiger’s Nest

Relax just five minutes from Tiger’s Nest at Zanta Spa, a peaceful Paro retreat perfect for non-hikers, those waiting for loved ones, or...

Nov 25, 2025 16:39

Three Bhutanese Hotels Honoured with MICHELIN Keys 2025

Bhutan shines on the global stage as three of its luxury hotels—Gangtey Lodge, Amankora Bhutan, and Six Senses Bhutan—earn coveted MICHELIN...

Oct 30, 2025 15:45

Lifestyle

Bhutan Celebrates World Music Day with a Soulful Gathering in Thimphu

Bhutan marked World Music Day with a vibrant concert in Thimphu, featuring over 90 artists despite the rain. Discover how music is shaping...

Jun 23, 2025 16:37

What's in a Name? Discover Bhutan's Unique Naming Tradition

In Bhutan, names are traditionally given by monks and not tied to family lineage. Visitors can experience a traditional naming ceremony at...

Jun 03, 2025 14:04

GMC

Gelephu International Airport Wins WAF’s Highest Future Project Honour

Gelephu International Airport, designed by BIG, has won the Future Project of the Year at the World Architecture Festival 2025, celebrated...

Nov 24, 2025 12:49

Groundbreaking Ceremonies of Two Spiritual Projects in Gelephu Mindfulness City

The Kangyur Labyrinth and Kesang Do Ngag Shedrupling held their groundbreaking ceremonies in Gelephu, marking major milestones in the...

Nov 11, 2025 17:42

Subscribe to our newsletter

Never miss out on new happenings and news stories!

newsletter

Download Daily Bhutan Mobile App

Connecting with us just got easier!

android app
apple app