The flight represented the start of scheduled services between Brisbane and Samoa with direct Boeing 737-800 flights which will operate twice weekly during November-January and weekly from February to March.

 

Brisbane Airport says the flights will "further strengthen the lasting and cooperative relationship that currently exists between Australia and Samoa, adding 14,000 seats into the market each year".

 

Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said his airport was committed to working with Samoa Airways to ensure the success of the service, explore market demand and provide more choice for travellers.

 

"Brisbane has the largest population of Samoan born people in Queensland, so these new flights help maintain strong cultural familial ties, providing choice and convenience, while saving time and money as travellers are no longer forced to travel via another port.

 

"Samoa is truly the heart of Polynesia and a place Australians want to visit to experience the breath-taking natural beauty, authentic culture and the warm and renowned Samoan hospitality.

 

"These new direct flights however will deliver so much more to both Queensland and Samoa, boosting business, education, health care and trade opportunities," de Graaff said