21 Feb 2005

Polynesian Airlines asked to help carry aid to Manu'a Islands

11:26 am on 21 February 2005

Polynesian Airlines has filed an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation to operate flights to Manu'a, during the recovery effort.

The application is based on a request to the airline from the territorial government which wants to charter flights to take emergency relief supplies, assessment personnel and carry out any necessary medical evacuations.

Governor Togiola Tulafono says commercial air services are limited and commercial shipping is not an option at this point because outlying islands experienced extreme tidal surges damaging harbours during the cyclone.