Crew Member Injured As Samoa Airways Plane Veers Off Runway

Margot
Staunton RNZ Pacific senior journalist

A crew
member on a revamped Samoa Airways aircraft was injured
after it veered off the runway while landing at Fitiuta
Airport in American Samoa.

Initial reports indicated
that the DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft encountered strong
crosswinds during its final approach and landing on Tuesday
morning (American Samoa Time), Samoa Airways said in a
statement.

“The aircraft had five people on board, two
pilots and three passengers, including a staff member. One
passenger sustained a leg injury and is receiving medical
treatment at Fitiuta Clinic,” said the statement.

The
airline has activated its emergency response procedures and
is working with aviation authorities, airport officials and
emergency services to support the investigation and provide
assistance.

“Samoa Airways commends the crew for their
professionalism and actions in prioritizing the safety of
everyone on board. The circumstances surrounding the
incident are being assessed in line with standard aviation
safety procedures,” it added.

A statement by the
American Samoan Port administration said the aircraft would
remain where it came to a stop until further investigation
by the US National Transportation Safety Board.

The
Port Administration has secured the immediate area until the
investigation is completed. The airport remains a secure
facility, off limits to the public at all hours of the
day.

Meanwhile, the Samoa Observer reported
that the plane recently underwent a NZ$14 million overhaul
and refurbishment by Unity Aviation Canada Ltd.

The
46-year-old aircraft had been operating for 28 years and the
overhaul, that began in September last year, was expected to
extend the plane’s operational life by another 30
years.

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