Samoa Airways second Twin Otter retrofit project update

Apia, Samoa, 11 November 2025 – Significant progress has been made on Samoa Airways second Twin Otter retrofit project at the UAC facility in Canada.

The aircraft 5W-FAY, has been fully disassembled for detailed inspection and refurbishment, marking a major phase in the airline’s fleet modernization programme.

Aircraft 5W-FAY departed Samoa in late September 2025, traveling to Canada via Christmas Island, Hilo (Hawaii), and Santa Maria for a complete retrofit.

This follows the successful completion of the first aircraft, 5W-FAW, which was finalized in February 2025. During a recent virtual meeting with UAC Canada, the Samoa Airways team received an update on the progress of the retrofit works and the next stages of the project, in accordance with the agreed schedule between the airline and UAC.

The aircraft has now been completely stripped down, with its fuselage and wings removed, allowing UAC engineers to conduct a comprehensive structural inspection and begin key systems and structural upgrades.

These enhancements will significantly improve safety, performance, and reliability while extending the aircraft’s operational lifespan. The aircraft’s interior has also been dismantled to allow UAC staff to fully assess all required refurbishment work.

The first retrofit project, valued at just over $10 million Samoan Tala was fully funded by Samoa Airways.

The second retrofit currently underway is also financed by the airline with UTOS loan financing available if needed—reflecting continued local confidence in Samoa Airways growth and long-term sustainability.

“We are very encouraged by the progress of our second Twin Otter retrofit,” said Fauo’o Taua Fatu Tielu, CEO of Samoa Airways.

“This investment demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing safe, reliable, and efficient air services for Samoa and the wider region.”

The retrofit project remains on schedule so far, with aircraft 5W-FAY expected to return to Samoa around March 2026, following final testing and certification.

Engineering Manager Shalendra Sagar is currently in Canada overseeing the project at the UAC facility.