โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
65
minutes
International โ Domestic
65
minutes
International โ International
80
minutes
Interline Connections
105
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Faleolo International Airport (APW) serves as the primary international gateway to Samoa, located approximately 40 kilometers west of the capital city, Apia. The airport operates through a single main terminal building that handles both arrivals and departures. The facility has seen modernization upgrades, including the installation of jet bridges (aerobridges) that connect the terminal directly to aircraft, protecting passengers from the tropical elements. The terminal layout is linear and easy to navigate: the check-in hall is situated at the western end, while the arrivals hall is at the eastern end. Despite its status as the main international hub, the airport remains relatively small, retaining a relaxed, island atmosphere.\n\nSecurity and border control processes are thorough, particularly regarding biosecurity. Upon arrival, passengers pass through immigration and then proceed to baggage claim, where all luggage is subject to strict customs and quarantine screening to protect Samoa's agriculture; travelers must declare all food and plant materials. For departures, security screening is standard, followed by emigration checks. It is advisable to arrive well in advance of the flight, especially for wide-body services to New Zealand or Australia, as queues for check-in and security can become lengthy during peak travel windows.\n\nInside the departure lounge, amenities are available to cater to international travelers. There are duty-free outlets selling alcohol, perfumes, and local Samoan handicrafts, as well as small cafรฉs offering snacks and beverages. A business class lounge is available for eligible passengers of specific airlines. On the landside (public area), facilities include currency exchange counters, Digicel and Vodafone kiosks for local SIM cards, and car rental desks. Transport to Apia takes about 45-60 minutes via taxi or airport shuttle; local buses are an option for the adventurous but are generally not recommended for time-sensitive airport transfers.
๐ Connection Tips
Plan for island transport times.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Asau Airport (AAU) in Samoa is a very small, regional airfield serving the village of Asau on the island of Savai'i. It primarily facilitates occasional charter flights, private aircraft, and essential inter-island services, often connecting to Faleolo International Airport (APW) on Upolu, but *does not currently host scheduled commercial airlines*. Its terminal facilities are extremely rudimentary, often consisting of a simple, open-air waiting area or a basic shelter. The layout is minimalist, with direct access from a small unpaved area to the tarmac and aircraft. There are no complex multi-terminal configurations or extensive ground facilities; all operations are conducted within this singular, basic setup. Walking times are negligible, typically mere seconds from arrival to aircraft, emphasizing its functional role in providing inter-island connectivity.\n\nSecurity procedures at AAU are minimal, consistent with its classification as a small, regional airfield not serving scheduled commercial traffic. Formal security checkpoints with advanced screening equipment are not present. Security is typically a matter of visual checks, adherence to local aviation safety protocols, and direct coordination with pilots or charter operators. There are no significant wait times for any checks. As a domestic airfield, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site; these functions would be handled at Faleolo International Airport for any incoming international travelers. Passengers should expect a highly informal and direct process, reflecting the very low volume of air traffic and the nature of non-scheduled flights.\n\nAmenities at Asau Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect any airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be extremely limited, possibly from a very basic local vendor nearby, and travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Seating in the waiting area is basic and often outdoors, and very limited. Accessibility features are rudimentary, primarily consisting of ground-level access. Travelers requiring assistance must coordinate thoroughly in advance with their air operator or local contacts. Family facilities, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are entirely absent. The airstrip's main purpose is essential inter-island transport and charter services, not passenger comfort or convenience.
๐ Connection Tips
Flights are limited; connections via APW.
โ Back to Faleolo International Airport