Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa has reiterated that the idea of Samoa operating its national carrier is not currently a government priority. 

In a statement made during Parliament deliberations on Wednesday, Fiame, who also serves as the Minister for the Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A.), addressed ongoing discussions around the potential benefits of a national airline, particularly in for promoting tourism and reducing airfare costs.

Fiame’s remarks followed a debate on the Economic Sector Committee Report regarding the Samoa Tourism Authority’s Annual Report for the 2022/2023 financial year. 

The report, presented by Committee Chairman Lautafi Selafi Purcell included a recommendation that the government consider re-establishing a national carrier. 

Several members of parliament voiced their support for this proposal suggesting that an aircraft to Samoa could lead to more affordable airfares for the public, a point that Fiame addressed directly.

While acknowledging the significance of a national carrier for the country’s tourism industry, Fiame emphasised that the matter of acquiring and operating an aircraft remains under consideration by the Samoa Airways Board and a Special Cabinet Committee. 

"This is not a new issue, and it is currently being looked at by the relevant authorities," Fiame said, highlighting the complexities involved in such a decision. 

"We must ensure that we can manage and sustain such a development financially."

The Prime Minister noted that although the primary motivation for some parliamentarians in advocating for a national carrier is the potential for cheaper airfares, the reality is far more complicated. 

"Owning an aircraft does not automatically mean that airfares will be cheaper," she explained. "While the government may help reduce fares, the cost of operating and maintaining an aircraft is very high."

Fiame also pointed out that the government must carefully consider its priorities when allocating resources. 

"We need to ask ourselves where we should focus our attention and resources," she said. "For example, when we talk about bringing an aircraft, we must ask ourselves whether everyone in Samoa wants to travel. 

"When we look at other issues, we need to continue developing our education system to provide the best learning environments for our children, and our health system must be strengthened so that everyone has access to necessary care." 

She stressed that decisions on such significant issues must be weighed against other pressing needs in the country.

Despite these concerns, Fiame acknowledged the importance of the discussions, noting that 10 members of Parliament had raised their views and made recommendations on how to improve the tourism sector. 

"Their suggestions have been noted, and we will continue to look at ways to enhance our tourism industry," she said.

Additionally, the Minister for Samoa Airways, Leatinu'u Wayne So'oialo confirmed that the latest financial reports for the national carrier covering the 2023/2024 year, will soon be presented to the Legislative Assembly. 

These reports will be referred to a Parliamentary Committee for further research and analysis. 

"Once we table the latest financial reports, we should have a clearer and more precise answer to the question of whether we should consider acquiring an aircraft for the country," Leatinu'u stated.