Eight passengers on a Talofa Airways flight from Apia to Pagopago on Monday believe they have their pilot to thank as the aircraft's front wheel broke during landing on Monday.

The accident has led to a civil aviation investigation.

A passenger on Talofa Airways flight 511, Mataua Aasa – Matai posted about the incident on social media saying she was grateful to God for guiding the passengers and pilot. 

“Despite the incident we’ve encountered on our landing site…shouts to our pilot (a Tongan gentleman) for being brave and confident in steering the aircraft when the front wheel tilted and popped,” she said. 

“Despite that, you made a safe crash landing on the runway…all thanks to our Heavenly Father.” 

Photos uploaded by Mrs. Matai show eight passengers including herself and her children on the tarmac in Pago Pago in front of the Talofa Airways aircraft that has lost its front wheel. 

According to the passenger, they waited about 10 minutes until the responders arrived.  

Owner of Talofa Airways, Toleafoa Jeffrey Hunter told the Samoa Observer there was an investigation underway noting he was unable to provide further details. 

“The most important thing is the plane landed, it had no problems and also the people,” said Toleafoa. 

“Any other information about what happened, there is an ongoing investigation.” 

Asked who was handling the investigation, Toleafoa replied its “the company and the C.A.A. (Civil Aviation Authority)”. 

Attempts were made to obtain official comments from the Office of the Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Vaai but no response was received by press time.