The island of Saipan officially broke ground on its new commuter terminal after it was destroyed by Typhoon Yutu in 2018. 

The project has taken some time because the airport is not self-insured and they do not qualify for FEMA funds, so they made a claim against their insurance to draw down on those funds. It will cost $9.7 million and is expected to be completed in just over a year.

Currently, Marianas Southern Airways and Star Marianas Air operate in their own kiosks alongside the condemned building which was used by locals traveling to Tinian and Rota. 

Commonwealth Ports Authority chair Kimberlyn King-Hinds said, "The public has been waiting a long time. Four years is a long time to wait to finally get into a situation where they are not sitting out in the elements. I have sat there many hours with many of our manamko' and our patients, waiting for our flights to take us back home so that is important for them too."

The new commuter terminal will have four counters for airlines, a restaurant, restrooms, and larger waiting area. They will also build a canopy walkway connecting the terminal to the international airport.