Samoa, a breathtaking archipelago in the heart of Polynesia, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. For those navigating this beautiful nation, understanding its aviation infrastructure is key, whether for international arrivals or inter-island connections.
There are exactly 6 Airports in Samoa, ranging from Asau Airport on the island of Savai’i to Satitoa Airport, which serves the southeastern tip of Upolu. For each of these facilities, you’ll find below a clear overview of essential details, meticulously organized by IATA Code, Island, and Primary Use | Notes.
Which airport is the main international gateway to Samoa?
Faleolo International Airport (APW) on the island of Upolu serves as Samoa’s primary international airport, handling the vast majority of international flights into the country. It is located approximately 40 kilometers west of the capital city, Apia, and connects Samoa with various destinations across the Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand.
Airports in Samoa
| Airport Name | IATA Code | Island | Primary Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faleolo International Airport | APW | Upolu | International; Samoa’s main gateway near Apia; all international flights operate here; terminal modernized in 2018 |
| Maota Airport | MXS | Savai’i | Domestic; serves Salelologa and eastern Savai’i; close to the inter-island ferry terminal; scheduled services are intermittent |
| Asau Airport | AAU | Savai’i | Non-operational for scheduled flights; historically served northwestern Savai’i; runway condition limits use to occasional charters |
| Fagali’i Airport | FGI | Upolu | Closed (2019); former short-runway airport near central Apia for domestic and Pago Pago flights; closed over safety and noise concerns |
| Faleata Airfield | Upolu | Closed (post–World War II); wartime military airfield near Apia; area later redeveloped for sports facilities | |
| Satitoa Airport | Upolu | Closed; small coastal strip at Satitoa (Aleipata) used temporarily in the mid-2000s for flights to American Samoa when Fagali’i was shut |
Images and Descriptions
Faleolo International Airport
Faleolo International Airport serves as Samoa’s main international gateway. It is located on the island of Upolu, near the capital city of Apia. This airport connects Samoa to many countries around the world. It handles international flights, welcoming tourists and residents. Many key international airlines use this airport.
Maota Airport
Maota Airport is found on the island of Savai’i, Samoa’s largest island. It is the primary airport for domestic flights on Savai’i. This airport helps people travel between Samoa’s two main islands. It is important for local transport and tourism within Samoa.
Asau Airport
Asau Airport is another airport on the island of Savai’i. It is smaller than Maota Airport. Asau Airport plays a supporting role in inter-island travel. It serves specific communities on the northern part of Savai’i. It is included to provide a full picture of all operational airports.
Fagali’i Airport
Fagali’i Airport is located on the island of Upolu. It is very close to Apia, Samoa’s capital. This airport handles domestic flights, mainly linking Upolu with Savai’i. It provides an alternative option for inter-island travel. It is a key part of Samoa’s internal flight network.
Faleata Airfield
Faleata Airfield is an airstrip located on Upolu. It is not currently active for commercial flights. Historically, it served as an airfield for various purposes. Its inclusion provides historical context for air travel in Samoa, even though it’s not a primary airport today.
Satitoa Airport
Satitoa Airport is an airstrip situated on the eastern side of Upolu. Like Faleata Airfield, it is not currently operational for commercial passenger travel. It represents a past or potential air transport location. Its inclusion contributes to a complete listing of all known airport sites in Samoa.
