Polynesian Seeks Monthy Cabotage Waiver

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Polynesian Airlines is seeking another waiver to continue flights to Manua during the busy graduation season and the start of the summer.

In late April, DOT granted exemption to the Samoa based carrier to continue air service to Manua up to May 23.

It has been operating flights to Manu’a via 30-day waivers from DOT since 2014.

Polynesian attorney Charles Donley II requested approval from the US Department of Transportation of an additional thirty days of cabotage operations between Pago Pago and the Manu’a Islands through June 22.

He said the circumstances described in Polynesian’s initial application have not changed.

The Pago Pago-Manu’a Islands route remains without U.S. carrier service and is likely to remain so indefinitely.

Donley said Polynesian remains the only air carrier able to provide much needed transportation between the two points, thus preventing severe hardship to American Samoa residents who would otherwise be required to travel between the islands by boat.

He adds there is a clear need for continued cabotage service for an additional 30 days, particularly as the holiday season approaches.

The attorney says Polynesian’s Pago Pago-Manu’a Islands service is also supported by the American Samoa government, which has previously submitted letters confirming the need for Polynesian’s service.

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