20 Dec 2016

Inter-Samoa air traffic soars

1:05 pm on 20 December 2016

Polynesian Airlines has increased flights between the Samoas to 14 per day, almost double its normal schedule.

A Polynesian Airlines Twin Otter aircraft at Fagali'i Airport.

A Polynesian Airlines Twin Otter aircraft at Fagali'i Airport in Upolu, Samoa. Photo: Alan Lebeda

The airline is operating three Twin Otter aircraft to service the inter Samoa route as well as flights to Ta'u and Olosega, Manu'a

The Polynesian station manager in Pago Pago Toe Loia said Apia bound flights are packed while flights to Pago Pago are fairly light.

Some of the travelers are heading to Hawaii and opting to catch the Fiji Airways weekly flight to Honolulu.

Mr Loia advises travelers to be at the airport on time and make sure those needing entry permits to Samoa obtain them from the Samoa Consulate.

Talofa Airways also reports full flights to Apia this week and next.

A spokesperson said they are running seven or eight flights a day and loads have been heavy.

One of Talofa Airways Twin Commander aircraft

One of Talofa Airways Twin Commander aircraft Photo: RNZI/Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia