On board a United Airlines flight early Thursday morning, all 166 seats were filled with passengers excited for the island paradise experience.

While the boarding process is the usual, the plane ride is much different. 

Starting at Haneda International Airport in Tokyo, just before takeoff, a celebration at the gate was held for a historic moment for both Guam and Japan being United’s first flight on the new Haneda to Guam route. 

It’s an exciting first for passengers like Sato Sasahara. 

“I didn’t know this was the first flight from Haneda to Guam. I was very surprised and I am enjoying this time,” shared Sasahara. 

And for crew like Pilot Captain John Zahneis, he said, “I’ve been in Guam now for 13 years. This is my first time being part of a flight for an inauguration. I was excited to do this and experience all the happiness with the people.” 

But what makes the new route so important? 

Sasahara said, “From Haneda is better because Haneda airport is very close with us.” 

Chief Pilot Errol Lee said it's the hub of not just Tokyo but Japan itself. 

“Obviously we want a lot of tourists to come down and see what our island looks like to visit what we call where America’s Day Begins, but at the same time we want people in Guam to have easier access to come up to Tokyo and take part in everything Japan has to offer,” said Lee. 

United's Executives Sam Shinohara and Kenichi Kiriyama expect the new route to boost tourism on both sides. 

Shinohara said, “It's convenient for the customers traveling in and out of Tokyo to get into Haneda airport. It is a market we’re excited to capture.”  

Capturing a lagging Japan market beginning with a memorable first flight. 

Kiriyama added, “At the boarding gate we’ll hand this out and have their picture taken. That could be a great memory for everybody.” 

From takeoff to touchdown, passengers received a warm welcome complete with the Hafa Adai spirit. 

The flights are daily from Guam to Haneda.

You can book now on united.com.