The Samoa Airways aircraft that veered off the runway while landing at Fitiuta Airport Tuesday morning was operating a charter flight.
This is according to a statement from Samoa Airways this afternoon. It said initial reports indicate the aircraft encountered strong crosswinds during final approach and landing.
The aircraft was identified as 5W-FAY, which is the Twin Otter that was just returned to service after undergoing a multi-million dollar refurbishment and overhaul in Canada.
There were five people on board, two pilots and three passengers, one of whom was a Samoa Airways staff member. The airline also confirmed that one of the passengers sustained a leg injury and is receiving medical treatment at Fitiuta Clinic. No other injuries were reported.
Samoa Airways commends the crew for their professionalism and actions prioritizing the safety of everyone on board. It said the circumstances surrounding the incident are being assessed in line with standard aviation procedures.
“The airline has activated its emergency response procedures and is working with aviation authorities. Airport officials and emergency services to support the investigation and provide assistance,” said the statement. “The safety and wellbeing of passenger, crew and the communities we serve remain Samoa Airways’ highest priority.”
KHJ News received reports from Manu’a that yesterday’s charter was to bring back CCCAS youth from Carson. California who were visiting Fitiuta after the CCCAS conference last week.
A Fitiuta resident said this afternoon that they were awaiting word if the injured person would be medevac’d to Tutuila, as the injury was more serious than what the community health clinic there could handle.
