The Department of Port Administration reopened Fitiuta Airport yesterday following consultations with the US National Transportation Safety Board concerning the incident yesterday morning where a Samoa Airways aircraft ran off the runway while coming in to land.
Port Administration Director Barney Sene told KHJ News that no aircraft is available for a charter flight to Fitiuta until tomorrow. He and airport leadership will be on the charter flight to conduct an on site assessment, co-ordinate with other agencies and oversee the department’s continued response to the incident.
When asked about the condition of the injured person, Sene said the individual suffered a minor leg injury and is able to walk. The injured person was a Samoa Airways staff member and was one of three passenger on the flight with two pilots.
Port Administration said until further investigation by the NTSB the aircraft will remain at the site where the aircraft stopped after it ran off the runway.
Port will secure the immediate area 24 hours until the investigation is completed. Sene assures the airport remains a secure facility and out of public access.
A press release from Samoa Airways yesterday identified the aircraft involved as 5W-FAY. This is the same aircraft that recently returned to service after a multi million dollar refurbishment in Canada.
Samoa Airways said initial reports indicate the aircraft encountered strong cross winds during final approach and landing
The airline commended the crew for their professionalism and actions in prioritizing the safety of everyone on board.
Port Administration said it activated its emergency response procedures with Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting responding to the scene to secure the aircraft and ensure the safety of all occupants. The Airport Operations team in Fitiuta transported passengers to the terminal. Personnel from the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and other ASG agencies arrived approximately 15 minutes later to assist with the ongoing response.
Photo: Manu’atele Community Worldwide
