Samoa Airways to Launch Apia – BNE flights

Brisbane Airport (BNE) and Samoa Airways have signed a partnership agreement signalling the commencement of direct services between Brisbane and Samoa.

The agreement, signed this morning at BNE by Seiuli Alvin William Tuala, Samoa Airways Chief Executive Officer and Gert-Jan de Graaff, Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) Chief Executive Officer, outlines the commitment of both parties to explore market demand, develop direct services, and provide quality services to customers.

A twice-weekly service is set to commence on 13 November 2018, with Samoa Airways offering services between Apia and BNE on Tuesdays and Sundays using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, injecting a further 14,000 seats into the market.

Gert-Jan de Graaff BAC CEO said having additional direct flights between Brisbane and Samoa will further strengthen the lasting and cooperative relationship that currently exists between the two nations.

“Samoa is truly the heart of Polynesia and a place Australian’s want to visit to experience the breath-taking natural beauty, authentic culture and the warm and renowned Samoan hospitality.

“These new direct flights however will deliver so much more to both Queensland and Samoa, boosting business, education, health care and trade opportunities.

“With Brisbane also having the largest population of Samoan born people in Queensland, the new flights help maintain strong cultural familial ties, providing choice and convenience, while saving time and money as travellers are no longer forced to travel via another port.

“We warmly welcome Samoa Airways to the Brisbane Airport family and look forward to working with them to make the route a success,” Mr de Graaff said.