Emergency diverts Flight OL222 to Faleolo International Airport

Apia, SAMOA – 18 January 2026. Samoa Airways confirms that Flight OL222 was diverted to Faleolo International Airport (APW) yesterday due to a technical aircraft defect.

The crew was operating the second scheduled service from Fagali‘i to Pago Pago when the diversion occurred. The aircraft landed safely at Faleolo International Airport with 16 passengers on board.

As this was treated as an emergency situation, the Captain was advised to utilise the main terminal, where Samoa Airways ground staff were available to assist passengers and crew. The flight was operated by Captain David Asi and First Officer Lachlan Kingan, who acted in accordance with established safety procedures to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all on board.

Samoa Airways sincerely apologises to the passengers affected for the inconvenience caused and thanks them for their patience and understanding.

Samoa Airways would like to reassure the public that flight operations are continuing as scheduled using one available aircraft. This incident does not mean that all Samoa Airways flights have been cancelled.

Passenger safety remains our highest priority, and the affected aircraft is undergoing the necessary inspections in line with aviation safety requirements.

Press Release – Samoa Airways