Samoa Airways has unveiled the arrival of two wide-body loaders at Faleolo International Airport. This would help with cargo and would possibly see the resumption of flights from wide-bodied aircraft that Air New Zealand had ceased following the breakdown of equipment.

The wide-bodied aircraft is essential for transporting larger cargo and bolsters exports out of Samoa.

This move is a proactive step to address previous challenges and ensure seamless operations for all carriers. The CEO of Samoa Airways, Fauo’o Taua Fatu Tielu, expressed gratitude for the support received during a critical period. 

Serving as the ground handlers for prominent airlines such as Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, and Qantas, Samoa Airways faced operational hurdles that demanded swift action.

With assistance from Air New Zealand, the Government of Samoa, and former New Zealand High Commissioner Dr. Trevor Matheson, a solution was promptly identified. 

Through diplomatic channels, Samoa Airways secured a loan loader from Air New Zealand, which played a pivotal role in maintaining uninterrupted ground services, particularly leading up to the ACP-EU meeting in Apia in 2023. 

The recent procurement of two FMC Commander 15 loaders from Spain, at an approximate cost of $1.0 million (WST), signifies a significant investment aimed at enhancing ground handling services. 

Despite initial orders placed in May 2023 with an expected arrival in September of the same year, delays stemming from spare parts supply issues in Europe pushed the delivery to late February 2024. 

Unfortunately, a malfunctioning loader incident in November 2023 could have been averted if not for this delay. With Samoa poised to host numerous heads of Commonwealth governments in October, the arrival of these new loaders is timely and crucial. 

Fauo’o extended his appreciation to Air New Zealand, the New Zealand High Commission Office, the US Embassy in Apia, and the Government for their swift assistance in resolving the issue. 

He also commended the dedicated staff of Samoa Airways at Faleolo for their diligent work and coordination. 

In addition to the two aircraft loaders, Samoa Airways has also invested close to $2 million (WST) in new ground services equipment from China, received in September 2023. 

This acquisition, along with the refurbished loaders from Spain, underscores the airline's commitment to improving reliability and efficiency in ground handling services.

Fauo’o highlighted the appointment of Muhammed Hakeem Khan as GSE Manager from September last year, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance the reliability of ground services equipment. 

Through collaboration and prompt action, Samoa Airways reaffirmed its dedication to providing efficient and reliable services for all airlines operating in and out of Samoa.