Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Samoa Airway’s head office has released a press release on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 concerning allegations of the airline transporting drugs from Pago Pago in an empty coffin.

Samoa Airways in its press release says it “would like to address the false and damaging allegations made by  an individual named Mau Hunt this week regarding the transport of an empty coffin from Pago Pago, which he claims contained illegal drugs.”

The airlines states that “these claims are entirely unfounded, and we would like to clarify the situation for the public and our valued customers.”

It continues, “Samoa Airways has strict guidelines and processes in place to ensure the safe and respectful transport of human remains, should a coffin need to be transported on one of our aircraft.

“All coffins transported by Samoa Airways are accompanied by family members or authorized  representatives, and the entire process is fully documented and compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

“We want to emphasize that Samoa Airways has never transported a coffin in the manner described by Mr. Hunt, and there is no truth to the allegations of drug trafficking associated with any cargo we have handled.”

Samoa Airways pointed out that “these allegations not only harm the reputation of Samoa Airways, but they also erode the trust that the public has in the professionalism and dedication of our staff. In light of the severity of these false claims, Samoa Airways is referring the matter to the Police. 

“We are committed to fully cooperating with any investigation and will take all necessary steps to protect the integrity of our airline.

“We strongly advise against the circulation of misinformation that could damage the trust and reputation of Samoa Airways, as well as the livelihoods of our dedicated employees.

The airline concludes, “We remain committed to providing safe, reliable, and professional services to our passengers, and we thank our customers for their ongoing trust and support.”

The press release comes on the heels of a report last week that scheduled flights for Samoa Airways on Wednesday were cancelled following the positive results for illegal substances and alcohol in 10 per cent of tested staff — the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the national carrier, Fauoo Fatu Tielu confirmed three staff tested positive for illicit drugs namely methamphetamine, amphetamine and cannabis.