SPEX suspends inter-Samoa flights as it works to obtain foreign carrier certification by Fili Sagapolutele Samoa News Correspondent South Pacific Express (SPEX) has suspended its inter-Samoa flights, effective on Tuesday, as it undergoes new certification by New Zealand aviation authorities. If approved, the company will be based in Apia, Samoa. SPEX official Avamua Dave Haleck said the airline is suspending flights "until further notice" while it goes through certification process under the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority. He said the certification process, which includes test flights, will take place next week. "Once approved, we will be registered in Samoa," said Avamua responding to Samoa News inquiries. "We will be a foreign carrier just like Polynesian Airlines." He said the company will be headquartered in Apia, Samoa with just maintenance conducted in American Samoa. "Our personnel will basically remain the same but with the addition of new pilots," he said. Avamua also said that SPEX will be applying to the U.S. Department of Transportation for authority to land in American Samoa and he hopes the federal agency approves the application. Asked for the reasons behind this change by a company owned by the Haleck family, Avamua said that SPEX has been flying under Guam-based Freedom Air for over two years. "It was always our goal to break away from Freedom [Air] and fly on our own," he said. "We've had many disruptions in the past due to circumstances beyond our control and we look forward to providing the best service possible between the two Samoas. In fact, our new motto will be 'Airline of the Samoas'." Before suspending flights SPEX's motto was "Wings of Paradise". "We are appreciative to the traveling public and ask for your patience while we undergo the certification process," said Avamua. "We look forward to providing the most courteous customer service and the largest and roomiest aircraft between the two Samoas." Avamua said the company's second 30-passenger plane is being prepared to enter service in July just in time for the many church conferences. With SPEX flights suspended, that leaves only the Samoa government-owned Polynesian Airlines and locally-based Inter Island Airways serving the inter Samoa route. Reach the reporter at fili@samoanews.com. © Osini Faleatasi Inc. dba Samoa News reserves all rights.