The Samoa Airport Authority has issued a clarification on airport charges taking effect from 1 March 2026, saying reports that passengers will pay an additional WST$180 are incorrect.
In a press release dated 26 February, the Authority said the Passenger Facility Charge will increase from WST$65 to WST$80, an increase of WST$15. A new Aerodrome Facility Charge of WST$100 will also apply.
The Authority said the total additional cost compared with the previous structure is WST$115, not WST$180.
It said the total combined airport charges per passenger from 1 March 2026 will be WST$180.
The Authority also said all tickets purchased before 1 March 2026 will not be affected.
In explaining the change, the Authority said the Airport Authority (Fees, Charges and Levies) Regulations 2013 had remained unchanged for over eleven years, and that a comprehensive review began in March 2024 to address funding gaps linked to 24-hour safety and security operations, maintenance and replacement of critical airport equipment, increased passenger and aircraft movements post-COVID, and compliance with international aviation standards under ICAO.
The Authority said it is also undertaking essential airport infrastructure upgrades to ensure Samoa’s airports remain safe, secure and internationally compliant.
The Authority said that between March 2024 and June 2025 it conducted consultations with airline operators, private sector stakeholders, the general public, international aviation partners, and government agencies.
It said the revised charges were approved by Cabinet and enacted through the Airport Authority (Fees, Charges and Levies) Amendment Regulations 2026.
