200 Passengers Arrive Onboard The First Direct Flight From China
Faleolo International Airport
Photo: Eyespyradio 87.5 FM / Lars Gustaf Bell
The first direct commercial flight from China to the island nation of Samoa has made a successful landing at Faleolo International Airport, marking an important milestone for the country. The Hainan Airlines-run flight, which had over 200 passengers on board and took off from Haikou Meilan International Airport, was mostly filled with Chinese businesspeople. This noteworthy accomplishment is the result of a decade's worth of work, which included the signing of the Air Rights Agreement between China and Samoa in 2015.
The historic flight ushers in a cooperative effort between Travel Focus, based in Hong Kong, and the famed Aggie Greys Hotel in Samoa. Through this relationship, a bridge between the two nations will be built for trade, tourism, and exports. With weekly flights planned for the following month, a number of charter flights have been confirmed for the months to come. Nine hotels in Apia are prepared to house the visiting visitors, therefore this development is anticipated to strengthen the local tourism sector.
As important international conferences, like the much awaited Heads of the Commonwealth Governments (CHOGM) Meeting set for October 2024, are getting ready, direct flights are arriving at the same time. After eight days, the initial wave of tourists will depart for Samoa and be replaced by a new wave on the ensuing trip. In addition, return flights from Samoa to China will be accessible for passengers and cargo, offering a special chance for travelers to go directly from Apia to the mainland of China and for Samoan export goods to reach the sizable Chinese market.
On these direct flights, Chinese tourists will be treated to a thorough tour schedule that includes visits to significant historical and cultural landmarks. A one-day trip to Savaii Island, which displays Samoa's natural beauty and rich tradition, is one of the itinerary's highlights.
The organizers of these direct flights extended their appreciation to the Government of Samoa, Hon. Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, the CEO, and the staff of the Samoa Tourism Authority for their substantial assistance. Three Samoan Associate Ministers and the head of the Samoa Hotels Association were present for the official debut of the direct flights in China. They were all aboard the initial flight that landed at Faleolo Airport on Sunday night.
The Samoa Tourism Authority is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the group on the HU435 flight at Faleolo International Airport on May 28, 2023, at 7:10 pm. It is important to note that all passengers have undergone thorough medical screenings, including COVID-19 and flu tests, ensuring the safety of both the travelers and the local community.
The direct flight from China to Samoa marks a significant step forward in strengthening the bilateral ties between the two nations and opens up new opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. As Samoa welcomes its first group of Chinese visitors, the island is poised to embrace the economic and cultural benefits that this landmark development offers.