Government will be paying $1.9 million to 395 families for damages caused by the blackouts last year, $10 million compensation for Manawanui will be paid in two categories, and the airport charges were necessary,  Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt announced on Thursday.

He said the departure tax, which was government revenue, was increased from $65 to $80, an increment of $15. He said the Aerodrome Charge of $100 was a levy that would go towards the Samoa Airport Authority.

He said this was an important levy that was needed to ensure money was sufficient for repairs needed to equipment like the air bridge.

Laaulialemalietoa also raised concern that it was Samoa Airways that first made the announcement of the hike. He said this should have been done by the SAA.

He added that the SAA will be releasing an official statement regarding the increase.

As of 1 March, all airline tickets will include $80 as departure tax and $100 as aerodrome charges. The latter is a new charge that will see airline tickets cost $115 more.

Compensation

Laaulialemalietoa also announced that the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment was finalising the compensation claims that arose from the blackouts that gripped the nation early last year.

He said the applications made by businesses and families are being assessed, and a payment would be made shortly.

He also said that the $10 million compensation for the Safata district will be paid out in two categories.

He said there will be payment made to individuals, and this will include infants to adults. He added that impacted businesses will also be compensated as per the assessment.

The $10 million compensation was given by the New Zealand government for the damage to the environment and the impact to livelihoods of the Safata people after the sinking of the HMNZS Manwanui in October 2024.