International air travel into Samoa is safe and secure, according to the preliminary findings of an international audit of the nation’s aviation security and safety.

According to a statement issued by the country's Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Samoa recently completed its third cycle of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Universal Security Audit Programme Continuous Monitoring Approach Audit (USAP CMA Audit). The audit was done between 11–19 September 2023. 

“As Samoa gears up to host the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024), successfully completing the 2023 ICAO USAP CMA Audit demonstrates the aviation sub-sector’s commitment to ensuring safe international air transportation,” said the statement from the ministry. “The audit preliminary results highlighted no significant security concerns – a testament to Samoa's ongoing dedication to aviation security and safety.

“The final report of the 2023 ICAO USAP CMA Audit will be available in 60 days from 19 September 2023. Further actions will be determined and confirmed by ICAO following the submission of Samoa’s Corrective Action Plan to address the finalized findings and recommendations from the audit.

“Samoa’s civil aviation remains steadfast in carrying out its utmost priority that safety is maintained for all International Air Transportation. By safety, we ensure that travelling by air to and from Samoa is secured.”

The first cycle of USAP audits for Samoa dates back to 2006 which was then followed up by ICAO in 2008. The second cycle was conducted in November 2012 and from then ICAO had changed the nature of how these audit programmes were to continue, moving from the normal audit process into a Continuous Monitoring Approach (CMA).

Samoa signed this CMA Memorandum of Understanding with ICAO in March 2020 which resulted in the recently completed audit. The USAP CMA Audit programme focused on the legislation framework and National Civil Aviation System for the State, particularly on nine critical areas which include the regulatory framework and the National Civil Aviation Security System (LEG), training of aviation security personnel, quality control functions, airport operations, aircraft and in-flight security, passenger and baggage security, cargo, catering and mail security, response to acts of unlawful interference and security aspects of facilitation.