Governor Lolo Matalasi Moliga, is optimistic Polynesian Airlines flights between the two Samoas will not be disrupted with the Samoan government announcing the revival of Polynesian’s international operations.

The announcement follows the Samoa government’s decision not to continue the joint venture with Virgin Australia to operate Virgin Samoa.

Speaking to the Sunday Samoan, the Governor said there is a fear that the Polynesian Airlines international operations could affect its current flights to Pago.

But he is said he is confident the Samoan government’s decision will also benefit the people of American Samoa.

 “Any route with connections to Pago will benefit American Samoa. In any occasion any additional flights to bring people in will be added tourism for American Samoa,” he said. 

In a letter from Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi to the Chief Executive Officer of Virgin Australia Pty Ltd, John Borghetti, the Prime Minister said the government is moving a different direction.

“Following numerous extensive discussions and negotiations held between VA and the Committee members of the Special Negotiating Team (“SNT”), Cabinet has unanimously decided not to re-new the Joint Venture (“JV”),” Tuilaepa wrote.

Governor Lolo told Samoa Observer that while the services to Manu’a needs to be improved, he said they have been working with Tuilaepa and Polynesian Airlines officials to make it happen.

Manu’a residents have been complaining about the airfare which depends on the availability of the seats.

Some people pay between US$170-$200 yet the flights between the two Samoas is roughly around US$160. 

Lolo noted that while concerns arise due to the airfares, for him its better to have air services than none at all for Manu’a.

Read more at Samoa Observer