The construction of two pivotal infrastructure projects for the Samoa Airport Authority (SAA) was officially launched this morning at Faleolo, with a ground-breaking ceremony.
These two projects are the Regional Airport Terminal and Apron Projects both to be erected at the grounds of the Faleolo International Airport.
Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa in her keynote address articulated the importance of the ground-breaking marking a ‘transformative step’ towards enhancing Samoa’s air transport connectivity and contribution towards the development of the country’s economy.
Amongst what these two projects materialising will further supplement are; creating jobs in aviation, tourism, hospitality, attracting investment, and increasing trade opportunities.
“It will also improve transportation, making it easier for businesses to operate and facilitating tourist movement symbolising our commitment to modernizing infrastructure and embracing the future of aviation in Samoa,” said Prime Minister Mata’afa.
Both projects are expected to be completed by September this year before the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) meeting in October 2024.
Construction of both initiatives is estimated at the value of $25million (US$9 million).
The construction of the Regional Airport Terminal is SAT$10million (US$3.63 million) and targets the upcoming CHOGM meeting said Prime Minister Mata’afa.
“…preferably the aircraft parking and passenger movement to ease the load at the current Faleolo International Airport Terminal.”
The Apron – aircraft parking area, with costs of construction estimated at SAT$15million will assist with aircraft slot management as well as with aircraft parking for private jets and smaller aircrafts, including 737 Boeing aircrafts.
The Apron Area is expected to provide 5-8 parking slots for private jets.
According to Prime Minister Mata’afa, the celebration was not just the ground-breaking of a new airport infrastructure but also the commencement of new opportunities for the business community and prosperity for Samoa.
Referring to the developments she said these were ‘a symbol of hope and dreams’, and ‘a reminder even small nations can achieve great things when working together with determination and a shared vision’.
“As we witness the construction of this Project, let us all be inspired to work towards a brighter future for Samoa and the Pacific region.”
The Prime Minister urged for prayer so that the work will continue to receive blessings from the Lord that will include the completion of construction works for both initiatives before CHOGM.
“We would like express our gratitude to the Board of Directors and the Management for their forward-thinking approach towards these developments, which will greatly benefit Samoa,” she said.