Samoa Airways has begun dismantling aircraft 5W-FAY in Taʻū, Manuʻa, as engineers assess whether it can be repaired locally or must be transported to Canada.
The aircraft veered off the runway while landing in Taʻū amid gusty wind conditions, according to Samoa Airways.
Following an assessment of the damage, the airline decided against making temporary repairs that would have allowed the aircraft to be flown to its maintenance base at Faleolo.
Instead, engineers are dismantling the aircraft at its current location to allow a more detailed technical assessment.
Engineers from Unity Aviation Canada arrived in American Samoa last week and are working alongside the Samoa Airways engineering team. The Canadian company previously carried out refurbishment work on the aircraft.
Samoa Airways said the assessment would determine whether 5W-FAY could be repaired in Taʻū or would need to be transported to Canada for further work.
The recovery operation began on Friday, 14 August, when the aircraft was lifted using slings and repositioned on the runway.
Engineers replaced its left main wheel, allowing the aircraft to be rolled to the western side of the airport apron.
The team then removed access panels and disconnected engine-control cables, fuel lines, electrical wiring from both wings and flight-control cables.
The aircraft was also secured to three heavy concrete anchors to protect it from strong winds while the work continued.
On Saturday, engineers began removing the primary flight controls, engine cowlings and propeller assemblies.
Samoa Airways said the operation was being conducted with a focus on safety, technical assessment and the careful recovery of the aircraft and its components.
The airline thanked the American Samoa Port Authority for assisting with the operation and acknowledged Silver Group Pago Pago for supplying machinery and other equipment.
It also thanked personnel involved in the recovery and the Taʻū community for its cooperation.
Samoa Airways said a decision on the future of 5W-FAY would be made after Unity Aviation Canada completes its technical assessment.
This article is based on an official press release issued by Samoa Airways on 18 August 2026.
