Samoa Airways is requesting the U.S. Department of Transportation to extend its cabotage exemption to operate flights between Tutuila and Manu’a. The airline’s current exemption expires on July 10.
In a filing with U.S. DOT on June 13, the airline’s attorney, Charles Donley II, requested approval for additional cabotage operations beyond July 10, 2025, through to January 6, 2026, between Pago Pago and the Manu’a Islands. He said the Pago Pago to Manua islands route is still without U.S. carrier service and there is no indication this will change.
“Samoa Airways remains able to provide transportation between eh two points, thus preventing severe hardship to American Samoa residents who could otherwise be required to travel between the islands by boat,” said the attorney.
According to the airline’s application, from January to May 2025, Samoa Airways operated about 210 scheduled flights, transporting 2,404 passengers and more than 800 kilograms of cargo, and performed two medical evacuations. “There is a clear need for continued cabotage service through January 6, 2026,” the application stated.
“Samoa Airways’ Pago Pago-Manu’a island service is also fully supported by the American Samoa Government, which has previously submitted letters confirming the need for the service. In addition, the application is supported by comity and reciprocity between the United States and the Government of Samoa.”
