A sleek, dark private jet spotted at Faleolo International Airport has stirred public interest. Neither the Samoa Airport Authority (SAA) nor Samoa Airways claim to know why it is there, or who arrived on it.

The aircraft, a Bombardier Global 7500 with the tail number N411XT, is an advanced long-range business jet. With a value of over US$75 million and the capability to fly more than 7,700 nautical miles nonstop, the jet is typically used for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, VIP charters, and confidential government or corporate missions. Its distinct black exterior and US registration have drawn the attention of travellers and staff at the terminal.

The plane is believed to have arrived almost three days ago.

When contacted by the Samoa Observer, Samoa Airport Authority’s (SAA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tumanuvao Evile Falefatu said he was unaware of the aircraft’s presence or when it landed. “I don’t know about the plane,” he said. “Usually, it’s the airline that handles those specifics. You should check with Samoa Airways. But I’ll email you when I get the info.”

But Samoa Airways CEO Fauo’o Fatu Tielu also distanced the national carrier from the jet, saying. “That is something you’d have to ask the Airport Authority.”

A source from within the Airport Authority, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the jet arrived sometime last week.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the jet remained stationed on the tarmac at Faleolo, with no ground movement observed and no indication of when it might depart. No official has been able or willing to confirm who flew in on the private aircraft, adding to the intrigue.

The Global 7500, manufactured by Canadian company Bombardier, is registered in the United States under tail number N411XT. FAA records list the plane as owned by a Delaware-based trust company, a common arrangement used to shield the identity of high-profile owners or lessees.

Efforts to obtain comments from Civil Aviation and border officials have so far been unsuccessful. For now, the jet remains on the runway, and so do the questions.