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Interior seeks to improve air service in A. Samoa
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Interior Assistant Secretary for Insular Areas Esther Kia’aina sent Friday a letter to U.S. Senate and House congressional leadership proposing draft legislation to improve transportation within the U.S. territory of American Samoa. The bill would provide reliable and sustainable air service between Tutuila and the Manu’a Islands.
“The lack of reliable transportation between these islands inhibits tourism, impedes access to education and health care services and generally limits opportunities for full economic potential within the territory,” said Kia’aina. “The transportation needs between Tutuila and Manu’a were evident to me on my trip to American Samoa last November. While we have provided almost $9 million to procure a ferry for passenger/cargo transportation, air transportation continues to play a vital role in the daily activities of the people.”
Currently, there are no U.S. air carriers providing service within American Samoa between Tutuila and Manu’a. The U.S. Department of Transportation has authorized a foreign air carrier to provide this emergency service capability between the islands. However, under current U.S. law, the foreign air carrier is required to submit an application every 30 days. This legislation proposes an exemption to this requirement. (OIA)
