Flights to Savai’i through Samoa Airways have been pushed back two weeks contrary to reports that the service to the island commences this Friday.

Officials from the national carrier confirmed that the last minute changes when contacted on Thursday to confirm if flights will begin on the announced date.

Samoa Airways Chief Executive Officer, Seiuli Alvin Tuala, did not respond by press time when contacted on email for a comment. 

Meanwhile, the airline has released its special fares to Savaii of a total $136 tala for one way inclusive of tax. 

A flyer from the Samoa Airways says the flights from Apia to Maota airport twice a week will cost $89 tala not including tax. 

Earlier this month, Samoa Airways C.E.O. said the launch of Savai’i service is to support growing demands for more convenient travel options to and from the market. 

“It is also a way to build support for local corporate businesses and considering the current pandemic, a way to support local tourism operators with a quick weekend get away from ‘Upolu’ option,” he said. 

“The service is a good example of our Government’s commitment to improving travel for our own people”.

Samoa Airways says they will be working with local hotel operators on the ground to build weekend packages to support the industry in Savai’i. 

General Manager Commercial, Leuluaialii Robert Rounds also spoke about continuing the growth of the local tourism industry. 

He said the current pandemic does see us pushing local tourism harder; however, the operation sets the base for Savai’i to be market ready when borders do open up.

The service is available for sale at Samoa Airways Sales Office in Apia and later on through the airline’s website. 

For those wishing to buy tickets out of Savai’i, customers can call and book through the airlines Apia Sale’s office and deposit payment into the airlines bank account in Savai’i. 

“This is a tentative measure for now till we have set up a proper sales agent in Savai’i, said Leuluaialii.