Fiji Airways is currently in discussion to launch a new partnership with the Samoan Government to restore its national airline.

Chief Executive, Andre Viljoen says this partnership will be formalized under an agreement that is yet to be signed.

The proposed partnership entails Fiji Airways to assist Samoa in acquiring a B737NextGen.

Fiji Airways will also provide support to the airline as well as training for its crew.

Viljoen says a joint-venture will be established to cover any additional flights.
He says they will also look at opening a three times weekly Apia-Faleolo-Honolulu service.

As it currently services the route on a weekly basis, the two additional flights will come under the new joint venture.

Fiji Airways has also proposed three of Nadi-Apia flights to be upgraded from the current ATR 72-600 to the B737-800.

However, Fiji Airways will not hold any shares, but will sell tickets on Fiji Airways flights servicing Samoa.

The Samoan government has also indicated that the Samoan airways will operate its own jet aircraft in the long term, although one option could involve lease agreements with Fiji Airways.

FBC understands Samoa turned to Fiji Airways for assistance to re-establish the Polynesian Airlines as a full-scale international operator once the joint-venture with Virgin Australia expires in December this year.

The Samoans have reportedly expressed discontent at Virgin Samoa’s financial performance and costs.

The airline will be renamed from the Polynesian Airlines to the Samoa Airways.

Viljoen told FBC News they’re excited by the potential of this partnership.

He says Fiji Airways is still working through the details of the MOU in consultation with the parties involved.