95 passengers on Qantas Airways inaugural service between Faleolo & Auckland

Staff Reporters/

Apia, SAMOA – 18 June 2026 – Ninety-five passengers were on Qantas Airways inaugural service between Faleolo and Auckland that departed at 6:51 this morning.

The first flight, QFA145, operated by a Boeing 737-800, arrived at Faleolo Airport from Auckland at 11:42 last night, carrying approximately 145 passengers.

The return service, QFA144, departed Faleolo at 6:51 this morning with 95 passengers on board.

For many years, Air New Zealand was the only airline serving the Auckland–Apia route. With the addition of Qantas, travelers now have three airline options when booking flights between Samoa and Auckland: Air New Zealand, Fiji Airways, and Qantas.

Coincidentally, the Qantas flight arrived at the same time as a Fiji Airways service. Despite a brief shower of rain, the Samoa Airport Authority said the airport operations ran smoothly, and all aerobridges functioned efficiently.

The introduction of additional airline services provides greater travel choices for Samoan residents and international visitors alike.

Looking ahead, the Samoan government has had a Task Force planning and preparing the reinstatement of Samoa Airways jet services and a new Board is to be appointed soon.

Industry and political reactions to the Samoan government’s move had been discouraging. But the addition of Qantas Airways to fly one of the lucrative Auckland/Faleolo route, poses a question as to the timing when the route had been dominated by Air New Zealand for so long.

A statement this week from the government owned Unit Trust of Samoa (UTOS) described the venture as an important long-term project “for our country’s connectivity, economy, and national pride.”

The statement said discussions have been thorough by design, reflecting the scale of the undertaking and our determination to get this right for the people of Samoa.

“We can confirm that fundraising through UTOS represents one part of a broader, multifaceted funding strategy still being developed.”

The government said discussions on fleet and route options remain ongoing as part of “normal due diligence.”

In parliament today, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Schmidt explained that air services agreements with Qantas will provide 6 weekly flights from Sydney/Auckland/ Apia return.