Samoa Airways has increased its airfares to Manu’a without any prior announcement.
Manu’a lawmakers Vesi Fautanu and Vice Speaker Fetu Fetui said they learned about the significant fare increase from constituents the day before.
A one way fare which used to cost $90 is now $182.50, said Fetu, adding that he has receipts from a traveler who paid the fare yesterday.
According to the vice speaker he spoke with the local station manager for Samoa Airways Toe Loia who said that the fare increase was implemented by their headquarters in Samoa.
Fetu said the local manager was apologetic and he is trying to persuade airline management to reconsider the fare hike.
The Manu’a faipule suggested that COVID-19 funding be used to help the people of Manu’a with their airfares.
The House is scheduling a hearing with the CEO of Samoa Airways Seiuli Alvin Tuala, members of the Coronavirus Task Force and the Director of Commerce regarding the fare hike.
