By Tupuola Terry Tavita

Rebranded Polynesian Blue – now Virgin Samoa – took to the skies on Friday.

Stripped of its dominant airbrush red, the airline’s new sleek look, with Samoan tats to boot, was launched Friday in a ceremony at Faleolo International Airport.

Delivering the keynote address, Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi extolled on the many benefits to the economy the joint-venture with Virgin Airlines brought in since it was established in 2006.

“The merger became an instant success after years of Polynesian Airlines’ constant drain on public funds.

“Polynesian Blue – now Virgin Samoa – has recorded successful profits every year. Over US$7 million has been received by government. Tourism growth has jumped from 4 percent to 15 percent, revenues increased from US$83 million to US$113 million and an estimated 2,000 jobs were created as a result of the expansion in the tourism and travel industries. Airfares on average have also dropped by 35 percent.

“I therefore like to thank the management and staff of Virgin Samoa for this continuing success. The merger has been quoted by several financial publications as a successful model for national airlines.�? Representing Virgin Airlines was chief executive of Virgin Samoa Mr Mark Pitt.

“Today we take the national airline of Samoa into the future,�?

“The new livery will increase the airline’s visibility in the eyes of local Samoans and those living abroad as Samoa’s national flag carrier,�? he said.

“Since announcing the new name in December last year, the response from the Samoan people has been overwhelmingly positive.�?

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