Over in the Northern Marianas, Saipan marked the return of United’s direct Narita flight. But it comes at a cost. But CNMI government officials say it's worth the risk - a $15 million investment of federal funds.

The return of the Narita to Saipan flight also marks an investment into the Commonwealth’s bread and butter: tourism. And it comes at a cost. Governor Ralph Torres said, "I am not sure about the total investment on it. But I do know MVA has been putting funds not just for this but for other destinations, as well."

So -- what is TRIP? Priscilla M. Iakopo. Managing Director, Mariana Visitors Authority explained, "It is Tourism Resumption Investment Plan."

So how much does TRIP cost? "We actually set aside $15 million …this is supported by our governor who actually helped MVA restart tourism and that is just for the Japan market. But it is not just for the airlines, it is the entire TRIP market. So you are talking about airlines, travel agencies, OTAs, the whole 9 yards," she added.

That $15 million comes from ARP federal funds. The visitor’s authority describes the investment in the airlines as “revenue guaranteed.” She added, "Our goal at MVA is to make sure that we have a lot of people on the plane. So the more people we have on the plane, the less money we invest, the less money we spend."

When asked if some of the funding will go to pay for empty seats on the plane, she replied, "Well, the goal is to make sure we have them full. That is the goal." She also confirmed that the funding pays for empty seats should the flight operate at less-than-full capacity.

United will fly three flights a week on the Japan route for at least 6 months.