Faleolo airport upgrades security of identification card system

By Talaia Mika

APIA, SAMOA – 18 AUGUST 2022: An upgraded identification card system has been installed to boost the security at the Faleolo International Airport.

This follows the handing over of the new system last week at the Samoa Airport Authority’s headquarters by the New Zealand High Commissioner to Samoa, Dr. Trevor Matheson.

The Minister of Works, Transport and Infrastructure, Olo Fiti Vaai told Talamua that the upgraded system will prevent people from reusing Temporary Passes issued to access restricted areas for different events and dates such the VIP lounges.

“The current security system in use is very old and is no longer used overseas because users can take these temporary passes home and reuse them to access restricted areas of the airport even when they no longer need to,” the Minister said.

The new equipment donated by the Government of New Zealand is funded through the Pacific Security Fund. Its’ installation and arrival is timely with the opening of Samoa’s borders and in view of the hosting of major future international events such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024.

Samoa is the first recipient of the 9 countries earmarked for this new technology airport identity card project that is being delivered by the NZ Civil Aviation Authority.

“The value of this new asset to our aviation system is endless, as it reinforces and ensures Samoa satisfies the international security requirements under ICAO Annex 17, that are currently implemented by the Samoa Airport Authority,” Olo explained.

The donation follows New Zealand Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern’s visit to Samoa earlier this month to mark the 60th anniversary of the Treaty of Friendship with Samoa and as New Zealand’s commitment to the strengthening of regional security.

In addition, New Zealand will also enhance Samoa’s border security through providing and installing a new age 3-Dimensionsial Computed Tomography (CT) X-Ray scanning equipment for Faleolo airport in the next 12 months.

This scanner can detect illegal drugs and weapons as well as all banned products at the airport.