Airport upgrade underway at Faleolo

APIA – Work on the US$21 million upgrade of Faleolo International Airport terminal in Samoa started this week with a ground breaking ceremony led by the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Samoa, Madam Li Yanduan, and Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.

The upgrading includes the improvement of the existing terminal building, the installation of arrow bridges, installment of a dedicated power system and extension to the terminal.

“The total area will increase from 5500 square meter to close to 12,000 square meters and will cater for 600,000 annual passengers,” Tuilaepa said.

He said the architectural design of the terminal building has incorporated traditional Samoa fale shape which combines with the modern styles “which will offer an unmatched and pleasing impression to departing and arriving visitors.”

“The design also draws extensively on current greening principles to ensure more energy efficient, more natural lightning and ventilation terminal facilities,” said Tuilaepa.

China is funding Phase One and Phase Two is funded by the World Bank and will include upgrading the entrance and the landing and take-off area for aircraft.

“Faleolo will be just like any other international airport,” said Samoa Airport Authority CEO Magele Hoe Viali.

The facelift for the airport is part of the government’s plans to position Samoa as a hub for tourism, travel and events such as conferences in the South Pacific region.