Governor Arnold I. Palacios (R) joined community leaders and airline officials on April 21, 2025, at an inaugural flight ceremony for Micronesian Air Connection Services (MACS), marking the launch of a new Saipan–Rota–Saipan air route. Palacios said the new service represents “a new chapter in regional connectivity” for the Marianas. In his remarks, the governor emphasized that multiple inter-island transport options are vital. He noted that improved connectivity “supports economic growth, accessibility, and community resilience”, and thanked John J. Stewart (MACS president) and his wife, Paula, for their dedication in expanding air service to the CNMI.
In practice, the Marianas have long relied on a single airline for inter-island travel. For example, commuters in the CNMI currently depend on Star Marianas Air for flights between Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. Palacios said adding another carrier will strengthen the region’s transportation network. Local leaders agree that reliable flights are crucial to the economy: Rota’s former mayor noted that tourism is the CNMI’s “primary source of economic success” and warned that limited air service would be “detrimental to Tinian and Rota”. (He also warned that without affordable travel, islanders would risk losing access to necessary medical care.) In short, officials say the new airline will give residents and businesses a viable alternative and backup option.
Stewart and his wife Paula launched MACS under J&P Holdings LLC to provide passenger flights in the Marianas. The couple already owns Micronesian Air Cargo Services and two skydiving companies in Saipan and Guam. Stewart said the islands were “in desperate need of an alternative inter-island carrier”, so they began passenger service this year. MACS is operating two new nine-seat Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft on the Saipan–Rota route. Stewart noted the planes were delivered in 2025 and come equipped with modern features like air conditioning, USB charging ports, and the latest avionics.
MACS opened bookings as a “soft” launch this month. The first Saipan–Rota flight departed Saipan at 9 am and returned from Rota at 10:30 am. Flights are currently scheduled four days a week (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays). Stewart said the inaugural flight was already fully booked, with local officials and media joining the trip. Fares are $139 one-way (round-trip $278). Passengers have been asked to be patient as MACS ramps up service. Stewart said a Saipan–Tinian route would follow soon, and they would take “small steps” to get the operation running smoothly.
Micronesian Air Connections Services aircraft on the tarmac.
Officials say the new route will ease travel for residents of Rota and boost tourism traffic. Governor Palacios praised the Stewarts for their efforts in improving air service to the Commonwealth. In recent years, the CNMI has also explored other transportation options: the federal government is funding a feasibility study for an inter-island ferry system, which Palacios said could “establish a reliable ferry system” connecting Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and Guam. For now, the Saipan–Rota air link is expected to have an immediate impact. Tourism officials anticipate that having two carriers (Star Marianas and MACS) will help revive visitor numbers on Rota and Tinian and give residents more flexibility in reaching Saipan for work, school, and medical appointments.
The Saipan–Rota route joins the existing Saipan–Guam flights (operated by United Airlines) to broaden CNMI’s connections. Local officials note that the islands’ economy and public services depend on solid transport links. The new air service is likely to spur commerce and strengthen community resilience by ensuring that travelers and cargo can move even if one carrier faces disruptions. As Palacios said at the ceremony, expanded connectivity across the Marianas will help the islands grow and stay connected in good times and bad.
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