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) is the premier international gateway to the independent state of Samoa, located approximately 40 kilometers west of the capital city, Apia. The airport recently completed a massive US$54 million modernization and expansion project in 2018, which more than doubled the size of the terminal facilities to 12,000 square meters. This upgrade was designed to accommodate up to 600,000 passengers annually, reflecting Samoa's growing importance as a South Pacific tourism and business hub.
The architectural design of the new terminal is a tribute to traditional Samoan culture, drawing inspiration from the 'Fare'โthe classic local dwelling. The building integrates a modern reticulated shell structure with wood-colored aluminum plating, creating a unique aesthetic that blends cultural heritage with contemporary engineering. Inside, the facility is equipped with modern passenger amenities, including Samoa's first aerobridges, which commenced operations in 2019 to provide seamless boarding and protection from the tropical elements.
Significant investment has also been directed toward the airport's airside infrastructure. The facility features a 2,700-meter runway, which is capable of handling large wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and 777, essential for long-haul routes to New Zealand, Australia, and beyond. Recent improvements include the complete repaving of the runway and taxiways, along with the installation of a new, state-of-the-art airfield lighting system funded in part by the World Bank to enhance safety during night operations and inclement weather.
For travelers, the airport offers a streamlined and efficient experience with dedicated zones for international departures and arrivals. The terminal houses a variety of services, including duty-free retail outlets, cafรฉs offering local and international cuisine, and currency exchange counters. Passengers can also access local telecommunications kiosks for SIM cards and car rental desks in the public arrivals area. Reliable ground transportation, including airport shuttles and taxis, provides a comfortable 45 to 60-minute journey to the heart of Apia, ensuring a welcoming arrival for all visitors to the islands.
๐ Connection Tips
Faleolo International Airport (APW) serves as the primary aviation gateway to Samoa, providing a modern and culturally-inspired entry point for the independent state. For travelers, 'connecting' at APW typically involves transitioning from an international arrivalโoften from Auckland, Brisbane, or Nadiโto local ground transportation for the 40-kilometer journey to the capital city, Apia. The single-terminal layout is compact and intuitive, making the physical act of connecting between gates very efficient. However, international arrivals should allow at least 60 to 90 minutes to clear immigration, collect baggage, and pass through customs, especially during peak windows when multiple regional flights land simultaneously. Ground transportation is well-organized but requires planning. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall; they are not metered, so it is essential to agree on a fare (typically between WS$60 and WS$70) before departing for Apia. For a more economical connection, local public buses operate from the main road outside the airport gate until approximately 5:00 PM, charging around WS$5 for the 60-minute trip. Additionally, many major hotels provide pre-arranged shuttle services that can be booked at the government tourist office booth near baggage claim. If your itinerary involves a domestic link to American Samoa, be aware that while some flights depart from APW, others utilize the recently reopened Fagali'i Airport (FGI) closer to town, requiring a 45-minute inter-airport transfer. Following a massive US$54 million modernization in late 2018, the terminal now features aerobridges and expanded duty-free zones. Travelers should be prepared for the high tropical humidity and carry sufficient Samoan Tala (WST/SAT) in cash for immediate expenses, as credit card acceptance can vary among taxi drivers and small vendors. Always verify your flight status via the Samoa Airways or
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.
โ Back to Faleolo International Airport