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Third aircraft added to Poly Air’s fleet

Polynesian Airline’s new US$4million Canadian-designed Twin Otter aircraft is very much welcomed, because it means the airline will now have additional flights planned between American Samoa and Samoa to cater to the increasing demand, says Polynesian Airline Chief Executive Officer (COE) Seiuli Alvin Tuala. This new plane will increase the number of the fleet to three planes.

 

The new plane is called “Savai’i”,  according to reports by the Samoa Observer who says that Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi has challenged Polynesian Airlines to fly to Savai’i. This challenge was made during the christening of the new aircraft last week at Fagali’i Airport.

 

“Cabinet met this afternoon and we have decided to name the plane, Savai’i,” Tuilaepa said. “The next one can be called Upolu.” The new plane adds to the airline’s fleet of two and will service flights between Manu’a, Tutuila and Samoa.

 

According to the Prime Minister, the idea behind bringing in a third plane is to ensure there will be another plane available when unexpected technical troubles arise. He said that the Twin Otter has been specifically built to fly in any weather conditions.

 

He also said that there are plans in the pipeline to bring two more aircraft from China. Samoa Observer reports the Prime Minister said the new plane was funded by a loan to ensure the traveling needs of the public are met.

 

Responding to Samoa News queries over the weekend, Seiuli said they are looking at adding additional flights to Manu’a with the increased demand.

 

He said, “We are hoping that more people want to go and see Manu’a, as it is a sacred and spiritual place and every Samoan should visit Manu’a. It is untouched and beautiful and full of historical places where most historical events relating to Samoan culture were born, so yes we are looking at additional flights as the demand builds.”

 

He confirmed that Polynesian Airlines is also looking at flying to Savai’i from American Samoa as well as from Fagali’i to cater to the business and tourist traveller. “Savai’i is a growing tourist destination with its untouched villages and deserted beaches, which is a major tourist attraction.”

 

Seiuli said they hope to start flights there soon after looking at the numbers and forward bookings, to see if there is enough interest in travel for that route. He told Samoa News that they will start looking at direct flights to Savai’i again from American Samoa, as well as internally.