Samoa: Upgrades planned for Faleolo Airport
Proposed developments at Samoa's Faleolo International Airport include the construction of a smaller terminal further towards the Mulifanua wharf to accommodate regional flights, along with upgrades to the cargo facilities reports the Samoa Observer.
Samoa's Aviation Minister, Olo Fiti Va'ai has unveiled ambitious plans aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency at the airport. He said the facilities would better serve businesses and ensure the smooth transport of essential supplies.
The Minister made the revelations in a recent interview on the Soalepule programme.
According to Olo, the Samoa Airport Authority is set to present a proposal to the Cabinet, seeking approval to proceed with the construction of the regional terminal.
This terminal would cater specifically to smaller aircraft, alleviating congestion issues currently experienced at Faleolo due to the presence of these planes alongside larger counterparts.
Highlighting the urgency of the matter, Olo emphasised the critical need for additional space at Faleolo to accommodate larger aircraft efficiently.
Delays in incoming flights have been attributed to limited space, prompting the need for a dedicated regional terminal.
The aim is to have this facility operational in time for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled for October of this year, during which an influx of jet planes is expected to bring in delegations.
Assuring the public that regular flight operations and schedules will remain unaffected during the construction phase, Olo reiterated the importance of the regional terminal and the government's commitment to its timely execution.
“We need more space to accomodate the incoming flights and to avoid flight delays before there is not enough space,” Olo said.
“So having a smaller terminal is ideal and we cannot call it a domestic terminal because the smaller aircraft also service the Apia-Pago Pago route and also flights to Tonga.
“We can call it a regional terminal and that is where all the smaller aircraft will park giving more space for the bigger aircraft."”
He also gave assurance that having the regional terminal will ensure that the flight schedules and operations will not be affected during the CHOGM.
In addition to the regional terminal, plans are also underway to revamp the cargo storage facilities at Faleolo Airport.
Olo disclosed intentions to relocate the cargo storage space to accommodate businesses utilising airfreight services.
Furthermore, plans include the establishment of cooler storage facilities to ensure the safe transportation of pharmaceutical supplies and medicines, particularly crucial during weekends when demand may surge.
Acknowledging the ongoing efforts to enhance airport facilities and resources, Olo reaffirmed the government's commitment to improving the overall standard of Faleolo International Airport.
These developments aim to not only streamline operations but also elevate the passenger experience for all incoming travelers.