The Mariana Islands Tourist Authority estimates that about 400 tourists are stranded in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) after many flights were canceled due to the impact of super typhoon Sinlaku.
A series of international airlines operating routes to Saipan - including United Airlines, Japan Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, T'way Air, Korean Air, Jin Air, Air Seoul... - have temporarily suspended flights to this US archipelago due to safety concerns due to super typhoon Sinlaku with winds of up to about 290 km/h.
A representative of Hong Kong Airlines said that most of the airline's affected passengers are tour passengers of companies such as Century Tours and LTT. Currently, stranded tourists are supported for accommodation and care by these units.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mariana Tourist Agency, Mr. Warren Villagomez, said that hotels in Saipan are making efforts to support accommodation for stranded tourists, ensuring safety and living conditions during dangerous weather.
Safety is the top priority. We acknowledge that hotels are doing everything to take care of tourists," he said.
Meanwhile, a representative of the Guam Tourist Authority confirmed that at least 1,500 tourists were stranded in Guam during the storm this week. However, local authorities believe that the actual number may be higher due to incomplete statistics.
Local authorities are also preparing to resume flights as soon as conditions permit, coordinating with CNMI Airport Authority and airlines to ensure safe runways and smooth flight operations.
According to updates at 4:50 PM on April 15, from the Guam International Airport Authority, aviation operations are expected to be restored within the next 48-72 hours.
Super typhoon Sinlaku swept through the islands of the Northern Mariana Islands on the night of April 14 to the early morning of April 15, causing serious damage on Saipan and Tinian islands - where the eye of the typhoon swept through.
Guam Governor said the island will maintain the highest alert level until at least the morning of April 16, as strong winds and high waves continue. Many coastal areas and beaches have been widely flooded.
The US National Weather Service said sea waves in Guam are at around 4.9-6.1 m.
