Air New Zealand has rejected public claims that it is prioritising other countries of the Pacific and Australia over Samoa.
Apia-based Air New Zealand Country Manager Samoa, Karen Gatt told the Samoa Observer, that Samoa is a key destination, both, for Air New Zealand and their customers.
“We recognize the importance of providing good connectivity and regular services between New Zealand and Samoa,” she said.
She announced Air New Zealand will increase flights on its New Zealand to Samoa route effective 31 October 2022, in order to cater for the high demand in travel between the two countries.
A local travel agency had complained about clients who have been trying to return to Samoa but can’t get seats.
“We’re seeing exceptionally high demand for travel to Samoa over the next few months following the borders opening last month,” Ms. Gatt said.
She added that while this is good news for Samoan tourism and hospitality sectors, the airline realizes that it makes it harder for those wanting to travel at shorter notice.
Ms. Gatt said, this is why additional flights will be introduced to have seven flights a week and two will be operated by wide bodied aircrafts.
