Airai Airport

Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), located in the state of Airai, is not merely a transit hub but a true gateway to the pristine world of Micronesia. As early as the approach for landing, passengers cannot tear themselves away from the windows: the view of the emerald "Rock Islands" scattered across the azure surface of the ocean takes one's breath away and promises an unforgettable adventure. This compact aviation hub, surrounded by lush tropical greenery, immerses travelers in the relaxed atmosphere of the island from the very first minutes, relieving them of the hustle and stress of big metropolises.

The airport possesses a number of unique features and advantages that make arriving in Palau comfortable:

• Modern Terminal: Following a major reconstruction completed in 2022, the airport received updated waiting halls with modern air conditioning systems, which is especially pleasant in the tropical climate.
• Compactness and Convenience: The small size of the terminal guarantees that you will pass passport control and retrieve your luggage as quickly as possible. It is impossible to get lost here, and the path from the aircraft to the city exit takes mere minutes.
• Scenic Route: The road from the airport to the city of Koror passes across the famous Japan-Palau Friendship Bridge, connecting the islands of Babeldaob and Koror, offering stunning views of the channel.
• Atmosphere of Hospitality: The airport staff is known for their friendliness and the signature Palauan greeting "Alii," creating a sense of home comfort from your first steps on Palau soil.

Below you will find the main contact information for Roman Tmetuchl International Airport (ROR), which serves Koror and the entire country.

• Official Website: To view flight schedules, service information, and the latest news, visit www.palau-airport.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can call +680 587 1101.
• Airport Address: Airai, Republic of Palau, 96940. The airport is located in the state of Airai, near the city of Koror.
• Email: For written inquiries, you can use the address info@piac.pw.
• Social Media: Follow updates on the official airport page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost items within the terminal building, contact the airport police at +680 587 1101 (ext. 235). For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage during a flight, you should contact the representative of your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: The primary channel for passenger support is the information desk phone and the information counters within the airport terminal.

Getting to Airai International Airport (ROR) from the city of Koror is quite simple, as the distance between the main tourist center and the airport is short. The trip usually takes about 10–15 minutes depending on your exact location and traffic conditions. The main modes of transport are taxis, hotel transfers, and car rentals.

Taxi and Hotel Transfer — the most popular and reliable option. Taxis can be found in the city, but it is strongly recommended to book a car in advance through your hotel or a local taxi service. This ensures timely arrival and a fixed cost, which is usually around 25–35 US dollars. Most hotels and resorts offer their guests an airport transfer service — this is often the most convenient and hassle-free way to get to your flight.

Car Rental — an excellent choice for those who prefer independence and plan to explore the island of Palau on their own. Several rental agencies operate in Koror and directly at the airport. You can rent a car for the entire duration of your vacation and return it right before departure. This gives you freedom of movement and the opportunity to visit the attractions of Babeldaob Island on the way to the airport.

It is worth noting that public transport in the conventional sense (scheduled buses, trains, or metro) is absent in Palau. Although local shuttles circulate around the island, their routes and schedules can be unpredictable and inconvenient for tourists rushing for a flight. Therefore, one should not rely on this mode of transport for trips to the airport.

For those traveling to the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. You can leave your car here for a short time to drop off passengers, or for a longer period.

Airai Airport (ROR), the main air hub of Palau, is a compact and passenger-friendly complex. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both international and domestic flights. Thanks to its small size and thoughtful layout, navigating here is very easy, even if you have arrived for the first time.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, eliminating the need for long transfers. Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the check-in area where airline counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to passport control and security checkpoints, which lead to the general departure lounge.

The arrival zone is organized just as simply: after disembarking from the aircraft, passengers follow signs to immigration control counters, then to the baggage claim hall, and finally pass through customs inspection. The entire path takes minimal time, and all services are within walking distance of each other.

Completing all formalities generally does not take much time. However, despite the airport's compactness, it is recommended to arrive for international flight check-in well in advance — at least 2-3 hours before departure. This will allow you to go through all procedures without haste, especially during peak load periods when several flights are being handled simultaneously.

The history of the main airport of Palau, officially known as Roman Tmetuchl International Airport, is closely linked to key events in the country's history. Although the airport serves the city of Koror and bears its IATA code (ROR), it is located on the neighboring, largest island of the archipelago — Babeldaob.

The airfield was originally built in the 1930s during the Japanese mandate. During World War II, it was used as an important airbase and held strategic significance in the Pacific region. After the war, the runway, initially made of coral rubble, was reconstructed and paved, allowing for the reception of more modern aircraft and the commencement of civil aviation development on the islands.

In May 2006, the airport was named after Roman Tmetuchl, a prominent Palauan politician and businessman who made a huge contribution to the development and establishment of the country's independence. This served as a tribute to his legacy. Over the decades, the airport has been modernized repeatedly to meet international standards and the growing flow of tourists.

The most significant reconstruction took place quite recently: in 2021, a new modern terminal was opened. This large-scale project, implemented in partnership with Japanese companies, allowed not only for an increase in the airport's capacity but also radically improved the level of comfort for travelers. Today, Airai Airport is not just a transport hub, but a symbol of Palau's openness to the world and a key element of its tourism infrastructure.

Despite its compact size, Airai International Airport (ROR) offers travelers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes where you can have a snack or drink coffee. For those looking for souvenirs or last-minute items, a Duty-Free shop operates, offering local products, perfumes, and other goods.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, although connection speed may vary. Zones for charging electronic devices are also equipped. The airport building houses ATMs and currency exchange points where major world currencies can be exchanged for US dollars, which are the official currency of Palau.

Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilize the services of the VIP lounge, the Palau Paradise Air Lounge. It offers comfortable seating, snacks, beverages, and a more secluded atmosphere for relaxing or working before departure. Access to the lounge may be granted to business class passengers of certain airlines or for a separate fee.

The airport is equipped to receive passengers with special needs. Escort services and wheelchairs are provided upon prior request to the airline. For travelers with small children, there are mother-and-child rooms with changing tables. Additionally, a medical point is on duty around the clock at the airport to provide first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options are located a few minutes' drive away, in the city of Koror and its vicinity. Specialized business centers or conference halls are absent in the airport, as it is primarily oriented towards serving tourist flows.

Airai Airport (ROR) is a compact and cozy air hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find everything necessary for a snack before departure or after arrival. The main dining point is located in the main hall of the terminal, in the public access zone (before passing security control), which is convenient for both departing passengers and those meeting them.

At the local cafe or small restaurant, you will be offered a menu combining simple international dishes and beverages. Here you can order sandwiches, pastries, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Sometimes the menu features dishes with local flair — for example, snacks made from fish or using coconut. This is a great opportunity to try something authentic before flying out. For a full lunch, the selection may be small, so for a leisurely meal, it is better to choose one of the establishments in Koror.

Please note that finding specialized meals — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal — at the airport will be extremely difficult. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are generally higher than the average on the island, which is standard practice for most air hubs around the world.

Dining establishments usually operate in accordance with the international flight schedule, opening several hours before departure and closing after the departure of the last aircraft. This place is ideal for a quick snack or a cup of coffee while waiting for boarding, but for a substantial meal, it is better to plan ahead and eat before arriving at the airport.

To ensure your journey from Palau begins smoothly and without unnecessary stress, use our tips for Airai Airport (ROR), located near the city of Koror. Planning in advance will help avoid unpleasant surprises and make your flight as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before departure. This will give you enough time to go through check-in, baggage drop, and security control without haste. To speed up the process, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such a service, and have your passport and boarding pass ready.

Seat Selection and Carry-on: Want to enjoy a farewell view of the paradise islands? Choose a window seat. For greater comfort and freedom of movement around the cabin, an aisle seat is better suited. Do not place liquids exceeding 100 ml or sharp objects in your carry-on luggage. Be sure to take a portable charger, necessary medications, and valuables with you.

Customs Control: Palau has very strict rules regarding the import of certain goods, especially food products, plants, and goods of animal origin. This is connected to the protection of the unique local ecosystem. Be sure to declare all such items to avoid large fines and problems when entering or leaving the country.

Tips for Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight or if you will need to collect it and check it in again. Leave a sufficient time margin between connecting flights, especially if you are flying with different airlines.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security control. In case of a flight delay, do not panic. First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status, as well as the possibility of providing meals or accommodation. Check the conditions of your travel insurance — it may cover such expenses.