By Tupuola Terry Tavita

Polynesian Airlines launched its third Twin Otter aircraft this morning with the strong message from the Prime Minister, ‘fly to Savai’i’.

Aptly named Savai’i, the third aircraft is expected to ease pressure on the current fleet in meeting growing demand for seats on the Apia-Pago route.

Polynesian Airlines has also been serving the Pago-Manu’a route the last few months under a cabotage exemption from the US Federal Aviation Authority because none of the Pago-based airlines are longer in service.

“It is a shame that the plane is named Savai’i and yet there are no domestic flights between Savai’i and Upolu,�? said PM Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

Tuilaepa said he challenged former Polynesia Chief executive Officer (CEO) to use the plane for domestic flights but the response given to him was that Polynesia will lose out because people preferred cheap fares by sea than the air.

At a cost of US$4 million, the new plane was acquired from Canada.

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