Virgin Australia has confirmed plans to launch solo services to Samoa in order to meet travel demand for the “important” island nation.
The announcement comes less than four months after the carrier decided to part ways with the Samoan government and dismantle its Polynesian offshoot, Virgin Samoa.
Virgin Australia’s flights to Samoa will commence on 13 November, a day after Virgin Samoa officially ceases operations.
Subject to regulatory approval, the Australian airline is aiming to operate five return services per week from Auckland to Apia, two return services per week from Sydney to Apia and two services per week from Brisbane to Apia.
Flights will be operated by Virgin’s Boeing 737-800 aircraft fitted with eight Business Class seats and 168 Economy seats. The aircraft also features 30 Economy X seats with additional legroom, preferred overhead locker space, priority check-in and boarding.
Virgin Australia’s General Manager Network and Revenue Management, Russell Shaw, said the airline hopes to be able to continue to support the “important tourist destination”.
“We are excited to enhance connections to Samoa through flights with Virgin Australia.”
Russell Shaw, Virgin Australia General Manager Network and Revenue Management
The carrier’s Samoa services are now on sale.