AGP Executive Report

International Flights Return: Saipan welcomed its first international flight in over two months as Jeju Air resumed direct service from Seoul Incheon, with four weekly flights through Oct. 25 (daily during peak periods). Tourism Recovery Funding: CNMI leaders urged Congress to keep visa-free travel for Chinese visitors, warning the islands are staring at just 104,511 visitor arrivals in 2026 and a steep drop in hotel occupancy taxes after Sinlaku. Visa Waiver Push: Guam and Philippine officials met in Manila to set up a joint working group to advance the Philippines’ inclusion in the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program—potentially boosting regional travel. Air Connectivity Pressure: A Senate hearing highlighted how high airfare and limited carriers are hurting residents and tourism; officials again pointed to cabotage rules as a driver of costly flights. Weather Watch: Another tropical disturbance (Invest 92W) is reorganizing and could bring showers and gusty winds to Guam and the CNMI into Friday. Local Travel & Culture: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Ataari Dinner Show is reopening in a temporary location, bringing back sunset dining, local food, and cultural dance. Safety & Planning: Residents were reminded to apply for federal disaster assistance before the June 22 deadline after Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

International Flights Return: Jeju Air resumed direct Seoul–Saipan service on June 21, the first CNMI international flight in over two months after Super Typhoon Sinlaku, with four weekly flights through Oct. 25 and daily service during peak periods—tourism officials say keeping seats coming is the key first step for recovery. Tourism Recovery Funding: The U.S. House passed compromise bills to fund Super Typhoon Sinlaku relief and Marianas Visitors Authority tourism recovery, including tobacco settlement support for MVA. Visa-Free China Debate: CNMI leaders urged Congress to keep EVS-TAP/visa-free travel for Chinese visitors, warning that ending it without a replacement would deepen the visitor collapse. Power & Tourism Agenda: Former Gov. Ralph DLG Torres said his top priority would be stabilizing Saipan’s power system with a new plant and more renewables to lower costs and help bring back airlines. Weather Watch: Invest 92W is expected to bring unsettled conditions to the Marianas with possible 2–4 inches of rain, gusty winds, and localized flooding—residents were advised to secure loose items and avoid unnecessary beach activity. Local Travel Costs: Diesel prices on Saipan dropped again by 40 cents, easing operating costs for some businesses.

International Flights Return: Jeju Air resumed direct Seoul–Saipan service on Sunday, restoring CNMI international air links more than two months after Super Typhoon Sinlaku. The Marianas Visitors Authority calls it a key first step for tourism recovery, with Jeju operating four flights weekly through Oct. 25 (daily during peak dates). More Air Connectivity: United Airlines is also adding new nonstop Japan routes, opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Tourism Funding Vote: The U.S. House unanimously passed compromise bills to fund Super Typhoon Sinlaku relief and Marianas Visitors Authority tourism recovery initiatives, with Senate approval still needed. Tourism Experience Update: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Ataari Dinner Show is reopening in a temporary location, bringing back sunset dining, local food, and cultural dance. CNMI Visa Debate: CNMI leaders and industry groups urged keeping EVS‑TAP for Chinese travelers, arguing it supports fragile air service and visitor demand while backing strong federal screening. Weather Watch: Invest 92W is expected to bring unsettled conditions to the Marianas, with possible heavy rain and gusty winds—residents are advised to secure outdoor items and monitor official updates. Disaster Deadline: June 22 is the last day to apply for federal disaster assistance after Sinlaku.

International Flights Back for CNMI: Jeju Air resumed direct Seoul–Saipan service on Sunday, the first international flight in over two months since Super Typhoon Sinlaku. The Marianas Visitors Authority says Jeju will run four flights weekly through Oct. 25, with daily service during peak periods, and calls it a key step for tourism recovery. More Flight Options for the Region: United Airlines announced new nonstop Japan routes (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo) starting Oct. 24, which should open easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. China Travel Policy Pressure: CNMI leaders and tourism groups are pushing to keep the EVS-TAP visa-free program for prescreened Chinese travelers, warning that ending it without a replacement could deepen the visitor downturn. Storm Prep for Residents: CNMI officials say Invest 92W may bring 2–4 inches of rain (locally more), gusty winds, and rough surf, with the strongest impacts expected over Saipan and Tinian. Recovery Deadlines: FEMA disaster assistance applications for Sinlaku close June 22; residents are urged to apply now for eligible lodging, repairs, and other support. Local Travel Economy Signals: Saipan diesel prices dropped again by 40 cents, offering a small boost to travel-related costs as tourism restarts.

New Flights Back in the Sky: Jeju Air resumed direct Seoul Incheon–Saipan service on June 21, with four flights weekly through Oct. 25 (daily during peak July 22–Aug. 3 and Sept. 23–Oct. 10), a key step for Marianas tourism recovery after Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Tourism & Culture: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Ataari Dinner Show reopened in a temporary location, bringing back sunset dining, local delicacies, and cultural dance. Visa Policy Watch: CNMI leaders and hotel groups urged keeping EVS‑TAP for Chinese travelers, warning that ending it without a replacement could deepen the visitor economy slump. Airfare Pressure: CNMI and Guam officials told a U.S. Senate hearing that high inter-island and mainland travel costs are driven by federal air cabotage rules, limiting competition. Weather Alert: Invest 92W is expected to bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas to Saipan, Tinian, and Rota late Thursday into Friday; residents were told to secure loose items and avoid unnecessary beach activity. Getting Around: Diesel prices on Saipan dropped again, falling to $6.68/gal, while gasoline stayed at $6.11 (regular) and $6.56 (supreme).

Disaster Recovery & Travel Planning: CNMI leaders say the visa-free EVS‑TAP program for Chinese travelers is still vital for rebuilding the visitor economy, even as U.S. lawmakers revisit China entry screening at a Senate hearing. Weather Watch: Invest 92W is expected to bring unsettled conditions to the Marianas late Thursday into Friday—heavy rain (around 2–4 inches possible), gusty winds, and rough seas—so residents are urged to secure loose items and avoid unnecessary beach activity. Tourism & Air Access: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 with two weekly flights, offering a direct option for Chinese travelers. Getting Around Costs: CNMI and Guam officials told a U.S. Senate panel that high airfare and limited competition—linked to air cabotage rules—are driving steep travel costs for residents and veterans. Local Visitor Economy: HANMI backs EVS‑TAP, arguing security and economic opportunity can coexist and that tourism remains fragile with reduced arrivals and airline capacity. On-the-Ground Updates: Saipan’s diesel prices dropped again by 40 cents, easing costs for some local operators.

CNMI Visa Waiver Push: CNMI leaders are urging the U.S. to keep EVS‑TAP, warning that ending visa-free entry for prescreened Chinese travelers would hit the islands’ already fragile visitor economy—while still backing stronger federal screening. Tourism Airlift Update: United Airlines announced new nonstop Japan service (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo) starting Oct. 24, opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan and Palau. New Direct Route to Saipan: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 with two weekly flights, a boost for China-linked travel. Storm Watch for Travelers: Invest 92W is expected to bring heavy rain, gusty winds and rough seas to Saipan, Tinian and Rota late Thursday into Friday; officials advise securing loose items and avoiding unnecessary beach activity. After-Typhoon Infrastructure Costs: DPW estimates about $104M in Sinlaku damage to Marine Corps Drive areas, with additional drainage impacts still being assessed. Local Visitor Experience: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Ataari Dinner Show is reopening in a temporary location with sunset dining, local food and cultural dance. Retail Dispute: A lawsuit seeks to evict Duty Free Shoppers from Garapan lots, alleging it stayed after a lease expired—an issue that could affect travel retail options.

Visa Waiver Push: CNMI leaders urged the U.S. Senate to keep EVS‑TAP, warning that ending visa-free entry for Chinese travelers without a replacement would worsen the islands’ fragile tourism economy. Post-Typhoon Repair Costs: DPW estimates about $104M in Sinlaku damage to Marine Corps Drive, including roads, seawalls, and drainage impacts still being assessed. Wildfire Readiness (Regional): Hawaii DOT outlined statewide wildfire steps focused on vegetation management and evacuation routes. New Air Links: United announced new nonstop Japan service (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo) that can route travelers onward to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Tourism Updates: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 with two weekly flights. Weather Alert: CNMI is bracing for Invest 92W with heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas; officials advise securing outdoor items and limiting beach activity. Air Service Continuity: MVA approved a $1.5M sole-source deal to help preserve South Korea–Saipan summer flights. Local Travel Disruption: Philippine Airlines delayed Manila–Saipan flights to October after Sinlaku.

Storm Prep for CNMI: Invest 92W is expected to bring unsettled weather to the Marianas late Thursday into Friday, with heavy showers, gusty winds (Saipan/Tinian 15–25 mph sustained, 25–35 mph gusts), and rough seas; officials warn of localized flooding and advise residents to secure tents/canopies and avoid unnecessary beach activity. Road & Cleanup Costs After Sinlaku: DPW estimates about $104M in damage along Marine Corps Drive from Alupang Beach Tower to the Port Authority area, including signs, seawalls, embankments, and drainage—while stormwater drains still need a major sand/debris cleanout assessment. Air Service Watch (Tourism): Philippine Airlines has pushed its Manila–Saipan return to October, citing fragile recovery conditions and limited room for tourists; meanwhile, MVA approved a $1.5M sole-source deal to help preserve Korea–Saipan summer service continuity. New Route for Visitors: United Airlines announced new nonstop Japan flights (Tokyo-Narita, Sapporo) starting Oct. 24, opening easier one-stop connections to Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Travel Policy & Costs: CNMI and Guam leaders told a U.S. Senate hearing that cabotage rules keep fares high—Saipan↔Guam costs have jumped from $200–$300 to over $600—while also discussing EVS-TAP’s role in supporting tourism with security screening. On-Island Tourism Return: Ataari Dinner Show at Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan is reopening in a temporary setup with sunset dining, local food, and cultural dance. Fuel Update: Diesel prices on Saipan dropped another 40 cents to $6.68/gal, easing costs for local businesses.

Storm Watch for CNMI: Invest 92W is expected to bring unsettled weather to Saipan, Tinian, Rota and the Northern Islands late Thursday into Friday, with 2–4 inches of rain possible, gusty winds (15–25 mph sustained, up to 25–35 mph gusts on CNMI), and rough seas/surf up to 7 feet on east-facing beaches—residents are urged to secure loose items and limit unnecessary beach activity. Airfare & Access Push: CNMI and Guam leaders told a U.S. Senate hearing that cabotage rules keep Marianas travel costs high—Saipan-to-Guam roundtrips reportedly jumped from $200–$300 to $600+—as lawmakers weigh possible changes. Tourism Recovery Moves: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 (two weekly flights), while Philippine Airlines has delayed its Manila–Saipan return until October; MVA also approved a $1.5M sole-source deal to help preserve Korea–Saipan summer air service. On-Island Visitor Experience: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Ataari Dinner Show is reopening in a temporary location with sunset dining, local food and cultural dance. Local Costs: Diesel prices on Saipan dropped another 40 cents to $6.68/gal.

Tropical Weather Alert: Invest 92W is reorganizing as it nears the Marianas, with CNMI officials warning of heavy showers, gusty winds (15–25 mph sustained, up to 35 mph gusts), and rough seas; rain totals of 2–4 inches are possible, with localized flooding risk in low areas and east-facing surf up to 7 feet. Tourism Recovery & Flights: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service July 12 (two weekly flights), while Philippine Airlines has pushed its Manila–Saipan return to October—both moves that could reshape visitor planning after the post-Sinlaku slowdown. Culture & Dining: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan’s Ataari Dinner Show is reopening in a temporary setup, bringing back sunset dining, local delicacies, and cultural dance performances. Border Security Program: HANMI backs EVS-TAP, saying rigorous federal screening can coexist with tourism growth as China visitor demand remains far below pre-pandemic levels. Local Business & Legal: Commonwealth Investment Company is suing to evict Duty Free Shoppers from Garapan lots, alleging the retailer stayed after its 40-year lease expired and owes holdover damages. Preparedness for Visitors: Authorities advise travelers and residents to secure tents/canopies and avoid unnecessary beach activity over the next two days.

Weather Alert: CNMI officials say Invest 92W will bring unsettled conditions over the next 24–36 hours, with the strongest impacts expected over Saipan and Tinian—heavy rain (around 2–4 inches possible), gusty winds (15–25 mph sustained, 25–35 mph gusts), and rough seas (around 5 feet, surf up to 7 feet on east-facing reefs). Residents are urged to secure tents/canopies and avoid unnecessary beach activity. Disaster Recovery & Housing: Some Saipan families still wait for FEMA eligibility review and processing for emergency tents, even as frontline responders report tents have been transferred for installation—JIC says DFEMS and partners install, while FEMA confirms severe damage eligibility. Aviation & Tourism: Hong Kong Airlines plans to resume Hong Kong–Saipan service on July 12 (two weekly flights), while Philippine Airlines has pushed its Manila–Saipan return to October—both moves matter for CNMI’s post-typhoon visitor recovery. Travel Policy for Veterans: Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds introduced a bill to expand VA travel reimbursements for veterans in CNMI and the Freely Associated States when no VA facility is available. Tourism Industry Recognition: PATA honored regional tourism leaders, including Marianas Visitors Authority’s Judy Torres, at its annual summit. Local Travel Comfort: Diesel prices on Saipan dropped another 40 cents to $6.68/gal, easing costs for businesses and travelers. Sports Tourism Buzz: CNMI pickleball athletes are set to travel to the 2026 World Cup in Vietnam, and CNMI All-Stars are headed to South Korea for a regional tournament.

Air Service & Tourism: Hong Kong Airlines says it will resume Hong Kong–Saipan service on July 12 with two weekly flights, using Airbus A320s—an important boost for visitors as the Marianas recovery continues. Air Service & Tourism: Philippine Airlines has pushed its Manila–Saipan return to October, with MVA and ports officials warning CNMI tourism capacity is still tight after Super Typhoon Sinlaku. Tourism Recovery Funding: A bicameral compromise restores full Marianas Visitors Authority tourism-recovery funding in House Bill 24-96, while also directing support for Rota and Tinian tourism efforts. Visitor Readiness: CNMI officials are urging residents and travelers to prepare for Invest 92W’s heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas late Thursday into Friday, with possible 2–3 inches of rain. Sports & Community: Saipan Little League’s CNMI All-Stars (Majors and Juniors) are set for the Asia-Pacific and Middle East Regional Tournament in South Korea June 27–July 3. Lodging Spotlight: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan earned Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” 2026 recognition. Safety & Operations: U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Saipan held a change of command, with Lt. Gabriel LaMartina taking over from Lt. Justin Miller.

Air Access for Saipan: Hong Kong Airlines plans to restart Hong Kong–Saipan service on July 12 with two weekly flights, using Airbus A320-family aircraft—good news for travelers planning short island getaways. Tourism Leadership Update: The Marianas Visitors Authority says Jamika Taijeron has exited; Judy C. Torres is acting managing director, after receiving a PATA Order of Merit. Korea–Saipan Flights Protected: MVA approved a $1.5M sole-source contract to help preserve direct South Korea–Saipan summer air service, with Jeju Air and AG review still needed. Philippines Route Delayed: Philippine Airlines has pushed Manila–Saipan return to October, citing ongoing recovery realities and limited visitor capacity. Weather Watch: CNMI is urging residents to prepare for Invest 92W’s heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas late Thursday into Friday, with possible 2–3 inches of rain. Tourism Funding Compromise: Lawmakers agreed on a bicameral compromise to fund MVA tourism recovery, aiming to support Saipan while also restoring Rota and Tinian tourism efforts.

Tropical Weather Watch: CNMI officials are urging residents to prepare for heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas as Invest 92W passes near the Marianas late Thursday into Friday, with rainfall possibly around 2–3 inches on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota and extra caution along east-facing reefs and beaches. Air Service & Tourism Recovery: Philippine Airlines has postponed its Manila–Saipan return until October, while the Marianas Visitors Authority is also moving to protect summer Korea–Saipan service with a $1.5M contract approved by its board to keep Jeju Air flights running. Funding for Visitor Growth: A bicameral compromise restores tourism-recovery funding for the Marianas Visitors Authority, aiming to support the post–Super Typhoon Sinlaku rebound. Getting There (Broader Travel): United Airlines announced new nonstop flights from the U.S. mainland to Japan (including connections that can route travelers to Guam and Saipan). Visitor-Friendly Stay: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan earned a Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice “Best of the Best” 2026 ranking. Community & Sports: The CNMI is preparing for more tourism momentum as Jeju Air and other routes are slated to resume, and local athletes are gearing up for international competition.

Tropical Weather Alert: CNMI officials say Invest 92W is unlikely to reach typhoon strength before passing near the Marianas late Thursday into Friday, but residents should brace for heavy rain, gusty winds, and rough seas—especially along east-facing reefs and beaches—with rainfall totals around 2–3 inches possible for Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. Air Travel Updates: United Airlines announced new nonstop service from the U.S. mainland to Japan (Tokyo-Narita and Sapporo), adding more connection options for travelers who can route via Guam, Saipan, and Palau. Tourism Recovery—Flights: Philippine Airlines has delayed its planned Manila–Saipan return until October, citing ongoing recovery realities; MVA says the route is important for leisure, business, and medical travel. Korea–Saipan Service: The Marianas Visitors Authority approved a $1.5M sole-source contract to help preserve direct Korea–Saipan air service during the post-Sinlaku recovery period. Hotel Spotlight: Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan earned Tripadvisor “Best of the Best” recognition for 2026.