โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Asau Airport (AAU) is a small domestic airfield located in the village of Asau on the northwestern coast of Savai'i, Samoa. It serves as a crucial link for inter-island travel, primarily catering to chartered flights and private aircraft. The terminal facilities are exceptionally basic, often described as little more than a small shed, offering a rudimentary waiting area. Despite its simplicity, the runway and terminal are maintained to comply with Part 139 Certification, ensuring fundamental safety standards are met for the type of aircraft it accommodates.
The layout is minimalist, with a single runway (07/25) that is rigid and roughly surfaced, lacking runway lights or a watch tower. Passengers disembark directly onto the tarmac, where a small shed serves as the primary terminal structure. Aircraft parking is limited, typically accommodating two Twin Otter planes. This straightforward design means there are no complex inter-terminal connections or extensive ground facilities; all operations are conducted within this singular, basic setup, resulting in negligible walking times.
Amenities at Asau Airport are extremely sparse. Travelers should not expect airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be very basic, likely from local vendors in nearby villages. It is strongly advised for passengers to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Accessibility features are basic, consisting mainly of ground-level access, and passengers requiring assistance should make thorough prior arrangements with their charter operator or local contacts.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Asau Airport are exclusively domestic and operate on a charter basis; there are no scheduled commercial flights. The airport primarily facilitates travel within Samoa, with chartered services often connecting to Faleolo International Airport (APW) on Upolu, the main international gateway. Due to the limited nature of operations, specific flight schedules are arranged directly with charter companies.\n\nFor travelers needing to connect from Asau to international flights at Faleolo (APW), it is crucial to allow ample time for the transfer. This involves a charter flight from Savai'i to Upolu, followed by ground transportation to Faleolo International Airport. Given that these are separate arrangements, it's highly recommended to build in a significant buffer, potentially an overnight stay, especially if your international flight is critical. Passengers must also be aware of luggage restrictions on the small aircraft used for inter-island charters.\n\nGround transportation from Asau Airport to other parts of Savai'i should be pre-arranged, as there are no public transport options or taxi stands at the airstrip. Local taxis or private transfers arranged through your accommodation are the most common methods. Since the airport reopened in April 2021 after a six-year closure, its role has been re-established for essential inter-island mobility, but without the regularity of commercial schedules, making advanced planning paramount.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Maota Airport (MXS) is the primary air gateway to the island of Savai'i, the largest island in Samoa. The terminal is a simple, open-air structure that perfectly captures the relaxed and tropical atmosphere of the South Pacific. It primarily handles domestic flights from Apia (Faleolo and Fagali'i), typically operated by Samoa Airways and Talofa Airways using small commuter aircraft, providing an essential link between the two main islands.
The terminal facilities are basic, featuring a single sheltered waiting area where travelers and locals gather. There are no commercial shops or dining options at the airport, so passengers should ensure they have necessary items and water before arriving. The warm hospitality of the Samoan people is immediately apparent, and the airport serves as an essential connection for the island's tourism industry and for residents traveling to the capital for business and services.
Ground transportation from the airport to Salelologa and nearby resorts is typically managed through local taxis or pre-arranged shuttle services from local guesthouses. The airport's location near the coast offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush volcanic landscapes of Savai'i during arrival and departure. It remains a critical infrastructure point for the connectivity and development of the island, ensuring that Savai'i remains accessible for both domestic and international visitors.
๐ Connection Tips
Confirm your domestic flight schedule with the airline ahead of time, as services can be subject to change. Ground transportation to Salelologa town and the ferry terminal is best arranged via local taxi upon arrival.
โ Back to Asau Airport