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(Tumon, Guam) — The Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) today acknowledged Jeju Air's decision to suspend flights from Incheon until March 2026 and expressed its gratitude for Jeju Air's dedicated service to Guam over the past 13 years. GVB understands this move comes amidst current market instability, particularly in the wake of the merger between mega airlines Korean Air and Asiana Airlines, and is closely monitoring the situation.
“Jeju's pause of Incheon-Guam service is disappointing, but we also acknowledge the fierce competition and restructuring needs within the industry," stated GVB President and CEO, Régine Biscoe Lee.
Guam Visitors Bureau reported a fast‑paced rebound in the Korean travel market, with monthly seat capacity rising from over 39,000 in June to approximately 50,600 in July and surpassing 60,000 in August. This surge signals meaningful momentum and sets the stage for continued gains in the coming months.
This upward trend stems from expanded air service supported by well‑structured incentive programs. Since August, Korean Air has increased its flights to Guam, adding additional daily flights from Incheon and Busan, directly reflecting the impact of GVB’s proactive market strategy.
“Despite the changes in the airline industry, GVB is pleased to see the Korea market rapidly regain strength. We anticipate stronger traveler arrival numbers in the final quarter. Our incentive model is delivering tangible outcomes, evidenced by the growth in seat capacity,” continued Biscoe Lee. “GVB remains fully committed to sustaining this momentum and ensuring dependable air access for our community.”
Biscoe Lee added, “GVB extends its sincere thanks to the Guam Legislature for approving a supplemental budget of $10 million specifically for airline incentives, enabling our response capacity, and to the GVB Board for ensuring agile execution.”
During their meeting on Thursday, August 28, 2025, the GVB Board of Directors granted Biscoe Lee the authority to expend airline incentive funds upon approval by the Executive Office. Anticipating these industry shifts, GVB Chairman George Chiu emphasized the need for flexibility within the incentive program.
GVB states that the airline incentive program will remain open to all carriers as the bureau aims to continue collaborations and support in the coming year. Biscoe Lee concluded, “Our mission is to drive visitor arrivals through increased seat capacity and negotiate the best outcomes for tourism and the people of Guam.”
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