The Samoan government says its proposed aircraft initiative remains in the planning phase, with officials confirming it is part of a five-year programme while investment discussions and infrastructure assessments continue.

At a press conference last Friday, 17 April, Deputy Prime Minister Mulipola Anarosa Molioo responded to questions regarding the status of the aircraft project, overseas investment contributions, and implementation plans.

Molioo said Samoan diaspora communities in Australia, New Zealand and the United States continue to show strong interest in contributing to the initiative, including a proposed $500 investment share toward the aircraft programme.

She said engagement with overseas investors is ongoing, including discussions during her recent trip to Australia.

The government, during its election campaign, promised to bring an aircraft to restart international flights for the national carrier, Samoa Airways. It was proposed that the Samoan diaspora would be asked to contribute $500 each for the purchase of the aircraft.

The initial timeline given to purchase the aircraft was the end of 2026.

Molioo added that diaspora groups have requested direct engagement with government officials and have encouraged further face-to-face meetings to clarify investment arrangements.

A platform under the Unit Trust of Samoa remains active for overseas investors, including those interested in supporting the aircraft initiative.

She said further consultations are expected, with a government delegation likely to travel abroad to meet diaspora communities and address outstanding questions before returning to brief the public in Samoa.

Molioo confirmed that key details such as aircraft sourcing and final arrangements remain under review and will be released once the government’s planning framework is completed.

“All those questions will be answered when our plans are known,” she said.

On the project’s overall status, Molioo said it remains stable and part of the government’s long-term development plan.

“It’s stable, it’s in our five-year programme,” she said.

She stressed that the initiative is still being assessed by task force committees responsible for investment planning, infrastructure readiness and operational structuring.

Molioo also emphasised the importance of national infrastructure before any aviation development can proceed.

“A plane does not come and land at a forest; it lands at our airport,” she said, noting that airport facilities and hotel capacity are under review as part of broader readiness planning.

She added that the government is also considering aviation arrangements such as Dry Lease and Wet Lease models within its five-year framework.

Officials say internal work continues, including investment evaluations and project summaries, with further updates expected once planning stages are completed.