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Samoa Airways launches! First commercial flight touches down in Auckland

It's the start of a new era of air travel for Samoa, one of increased competition and extra consumer choice, as the Polynesian island's national airline launches commercial services.

It’s the start of a new era of air travel for Samoa, one of increased competition and extra consumer choice, as the Polynesian island’s national airline launches commercial services.

The island nation’s Samoa Airways took off this morning when the airline flew from Apia to Auckland on a freshly painted Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

The airline replaces the Samoa Government’s recently terminated joint venture with Virgin Australia called ‘Virgin Samoa’ and commences with two direct Oceania routes (Apia-Auckland and Apia-Sydney) as well as four domestic services.

Samoa Airways

Speaking at an official take-off gathering in Apia, Samoa’s Prime Minister urged Samoans around the country to support the country’s independently run national airline, Radio New Zealand reported.

Those who choose to fly on the airline’s aircraft, leased from the Icelandair Group, will be able to choose from five fares: FiaFia Saver, FiaFia Smart, FiaFia Plus, FiaFia Flexi and FiaFia Premium Business Class.

Prices for flights from Sydney start from around $342 one-way and includes access to wireless inflight entertainment (so don’t forget that iPad or laptop), food and checked baggage.

Meanwhile, Virgin Australia launched its own independent direct flights between Sydney and Samoa this week and is hoping to gain Samoan Government approval to launch flights from the island to New Zealand.

READ: Samoa Airways is launching very soon

READ: Virgin Australia’s Samoa flights will take off from Australia

Would you be keen to fly with Samoa Airways?