Faleolo Airport

Welcome to Faleolo International Airport — the main air gateway to the island nation of Samoa. Located on the picturesque island of Upolu, this airport is the first sight travelers see upon arriving in this tropical paradise. Originally built as a military airfield in 1942, today Faleolo is a modern and welcoming terminal connecting Samoa with New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, and other countries in the Pacific region. It is from here that your acquaintance with the unique Polynesian culture and incredible nature begins.

Faleolo Airport has undergone extensive modernization to ensure maximum comfort for passengers. The new terminal, designed with inspiration from traditional Samoan "fale" houses, is equipped with modern amenities, including three aerobridges, which is a rarity for island airports in the region. This allows passengers to board comfortably, sheltered from the tropical sun or rain. Inside the terminal, you will find souvenir shops, cafes, currency exchange points, and car rental agency desks, making the start of your journey through Samoa easy and pleasant. The airport operates around the clock, handling most international flights during the night or early morning hours.

• Official Website: Most up-to-date information, including flight schedules and services, can be found on the Samoa Airport Authority website: www.samoaairports.ws.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate inquiries, you can call: +685 23201.
• Airport Address: Faleolo International Airport (APW), Main West Coast Road, Faleolo, Samoa.
• Email: General inquiries can be sent to: info@samoaairports.ws.
• Social Media: Current news and updates can be tracked on the airport's official social media pages, such as Facebook. We recommend searching for "Samoa Airports Authority".
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to baggage, you should first contact your airline's representative at the airport. If the airline is unable to assist, please contact the airport information service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general passenger support, please use the main information desk phone number or email address.

There are several ways to get to Faleolo Airport (APW) from the capital of Western Samoa, the city of Apia. The airport is located approximately 40 kilometres west of the city, and the journey usually takes 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Shuttles — the most popular and reliable option. A taxi ride from the centre of Apia will cost approximately 60-80 Samoan Tala (WST). It is highly recommended to agree on the fare with the driver before starting the trip, as not all cars are equipped with meters. Additionally, most hotels and resorts offer private or group transfer services, which can be booked in advance — this saves you from unnecessary hassle upon arrival.

Local Buses — this is the most economical and authentic way to travel. Bright and distinctive, these buses run along the main coastal road passing the airport. However, they do not have a strict schedule and often depart only when full. This option is suitable if you have plenty of time and little luggage, but it is not recommended if you are worried about missing your flight. There are no trains or metro in Samoa.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom and flexibility for exploring the island. Car rental desks are located both at the airport and in Apia. This is a convenient way to reach the airport, especially if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage. It is important to remember that traffic in the country is on the left-hand side. To drive, you may need a temporary local driver's licence, which can usually be issued directly at the rental agency.

Airport Parking is available for those arriving in private or rented vehicles. Faleolo Airport has both short-term and long-term parking areas. This is a convenient and safe option to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Faleolo International Airport (APW), the main air gateway of Samoa, is distinguished by a structure that is simple and easy for travellers to navigate. You won't have to worry about complex transfers or long corridors, as the airport consists of one terminal that serves both international and domestic flights.

The airport layout is extremely logical. The terminal building is a single space divided into arrival and departure zones. Navigation is intuitive thanks to clear signage and compact dimensions. Since there is only one terminal, there is no issue of transferring between buildings — all necessary services and boarding gates are within walking distance of each other.

The Departure Zone is located in one part of the building. Upon entry, you immediately proceed to the check-in counters. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers head to passport control and security screening, after which they find themselves in the general waiting hall with several boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is located in the other part of the terminal and includes immigration control counters, baggage claim belts, and a customs checkpoint.

Despite its compact size, the terminal has been modernized and offers passengers basic amenities. There are several shops, including Duty Free, cafes, currency exchange points, and car rental desks. The atmosphere in the airport is generally calm and relaxed, reflecting the overall pace of life on the islands.

Completing all formalities at Faleolo Airport usually does not take much time. However, on days with major flights to Australia or New Zealand, queues may occur. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5–3 hours before an international flight to complete check-in and pre-flight screening without rushing. Thanks to the simple layout and low passenger flow, orienting yourself in the terminal is very easy, making travel through Faleolo as comfortable as possible.

The history of Faleolo International Airport (APW), the main air gateway of Western Samoa, begins during the years of the Second World War. The airfield was built in 1942 by the US Navy Construction Battalion, known as the "Seabees". Initially, it served as a military airbase for the US Marine Corps during the Pacific campaign and played a strategic role in the region.

After the war ended, the airfield was transferred to civilian use, becoming the country's main airport. However, true transformation began in the 1980s. A key stage was the extension and paving of the runway, which allowed the airport to receive jet aircraft such as the Boeing 737. In 1986, thanks to assistance from the Japanese government, a new terminal was opened, replacing older, more modest structures. These changes provided a powerful boost to the development of tourism and Samoa's international connections.

The next wave of large-scale modernization occurred in the late 2010s. As part of a major project completed in 2019, Faleolo Airport received a completely new, modern terminal with aerobridges, an improved runway, and updated infrastructure. This reconstruction significantly increased capacity and the level of comfort for passengers, strengthening the airport's status as a modern and convenient transport hub connecting Apia and the entire country with the world.

Interesting fact: the airport's journey from a simple wartime coral runway to a modern international complex reflects the history of Samoa's own development. Today, Faleolo Airport is not just a transport facility, but a symbol of the country's openness and readiness to welcome guests from all over the world while preserving its unique Polynesian culture.

Faleolo International Airport (APW), the main air gateway of Samoa, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and thoughtfully designed for the convenience of travellers arriving on the paradise islands or departing from them.

Inside the airport, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat before departure, enjoy local drinks, or have a cup of coffee. There are Duty-Free shops offering a standard assortment of international goods, perfumes, and tobacco products, as well as souvenir stalls where you can purchase traditional Samoan crafts, clothing, and memorable gifts.

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, a VIP Lounge is available. It typically offers a quieter atmosphere, complimentary snacks and beverages, as well as fresh newspapers. Access to the lounge is provided to business class passengers of certain airlines or for a separate fee. Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the terminal, usually on a paid basis, and special stands and sockets are provided for charging electronic devices.

Financial matters can be resolved directly at the airport: there are banking branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points where you can exchange money for the local currency — the Samoan Tala (WST). In case of feeling unwell, the airport has a first aid station. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped, and for passengers with reduced mobility, ramps and specially equipped restrooms are provided to facilitate movement around the terminal.

There are no hotels directly within the airport building, but various accommodation options, from budget guest houses to comfortable resorts, are located just a few minutes' drive away. Specialized business centres or conference halls are absent at Faleolo Airport, although basic business services may be provided in the VIP Lounge.

Faleolo Airport (APW) offers passengers basic but convenient options for a snack before departure or after arrival. It is important to note that this is a small airport, so the choice of establishments here is limited compared to major international hubs. Nevertheless, you will be able to find everything necessary to refresh yourself.

The main dining points are located both in the public zone (landside), accessible to all visitors before security control, and in the secure departure zone (airside). In the public zone, there is usually a small cafe where you can have coffee and a snack while waiting for check-in or meeting arrivals. After passing passport control and screening in the departure zone, there is also a cafe where passengers can comfortably spend time before boarding their flight.

The menu mainly consists of simple and quick dishes: sandwiches, pastries, salads, as well as hot and cold beverages. Sometimes you can find dishes with elements of local cuisine, for example, snacks with coconut or tropical fruits. For a quick snack, these establishments are ideal. If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, the selection will be quite modest. In this case, it is recommended to eat beforehand at one of the restaurants in Apia.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, Halal dishes) should be prepared for the possibility that specialized options may be absent. In such a situation, it is most reliable to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in the city, which is standard practice for air hubs worldwide.

The opening hours of catering establishments at Faleolo Airport are directly linked to the flight schedule. As a rule, they are open to serve all international departures and close shortly after the last aircraft departs. Overall, the airport provides sufficient conditions for waiting comfortably for a flight with the opportunity to have coffee and a light snack before travelling through the islands of Western Samoa.

To ensure your journey through the main airport of Western Samoa is as comfortable as possible, please use our tips. By following these recommendations, you can avoid unnecessary stress and save time at Faleolo Airport.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure. This will give you enough time for calm check-in, baggage drop-off, and passing through security control, especially during busy periods. If possible, complete check-in online to save time at the counters.

Hand Luggage and Customs: Ensure your hand luggage complies with airline rules. Liquids can be carried in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Be especially attentive to the customs regulations of Western Samoa: there are strict restrictions on bringing in food products, plants, and goods of animal origin. Be sure to declare all such items to protect the unique ecosystem of the islands and avoid fines.

Seat Selection and Transfers: If you want to enjoy breathtaking views of coral reefs and green islands during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. Passengers with long legs will be more comfortable in an aisle seat. If you have a transfer at Apia airport, check with your airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Saving Time and Money: To save money on transfers, consider booking a shuttle or taxi online in advance. You can exchange a small amount of money into local Tala (WST) at the airport, but banks in the city usually offer a better rate. Use ATMs, but keep in mind possible fees from your bank.

In Case of Flight Delay: Remain calm and monitor information on the departure boards or via your airline's mobile app. Do not hesitate to ask carrier representatives for information regarding the provision of beverages, meals, or hotel accommodation in case of a long delay. Your passenger rights are protected, and the airline is obliged to provide support.