The Maota Airport has been given a new lease of life with its runway getting a new paint job as authorities prepare for the resumption of domestic flights between Apia and Savai'i next week.

Workers from the Airport Authority were in Savai'i last month to prepare the airport for travelers that prefer to fly to the island on the Samoa Airways-owned Twin Otter aircraft.

The national airline had recently announced the revival of the air service to Maota airport. It has been more than 20 years since the services between Fagalii airport and Maota as well as Asau was discontinued. 

Samoa Airways will now resume their flights to Maota airport next week with special fares of $136 tala inclusive of tax for one way. 

Samoa Airways Chief Executive Officer, Seiuli Alvin Tuala, had recently stated that the launch of Savai’i service is to support growing demands for more convenient travel option 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 will be working with local hotel operators on the ground to build weekend packages to support the tourism industry in Savai’i.