A Samoa Airways aircraft veered off the Fitiuta Airport as it was landing this morning.

According to a press release from the Department of Port Administration, at 10:37 a.m., Samoa Airways Twin Otter (Flight 990), landed on Runway 12 at Fitiuta Airport and subsequently veered off the center of the runway. There were no fatalities. Five people were on board, including two pilots and three passengers, one of whom was an airline staff member.

All occupants have been accounted for. The airline staff member sustained a leg injury and is receiving treatment at the Fitiuta Clinic at Fitiuta Airport. No other injuries have been reported.

Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) truck responded immediately to the scene and secured the people and aircraft.

Personnel from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) are also on site assisting with the response.

The incident remains under investigation, and the cause has not yet been determined.

Airport officials are coordinating with the appropriate authorities to assess the incident and ensure the continued safety of airport operations. Port Administration Director Barney Sene said it’s his understanding that the Samoa Airways aircraft had recently undergone a complete overhaul and refurbishment. He anticipates that the National Transportation Safety Board would carry out an investigation.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available as the investigation progresses.

Samoa Airways has yet to issue a statement on the incident.

Photos: Port Administration