Airways New Zealand secures major contract for Samoa airport upgrade

Airways New Zealand has been awarded a major World Bank funded contract by the Samoa Airport Authority to assist with the upgrade of air traffic management systems and infrastructure at Faleolo International Airport. The World Bank is funding a US$25m package of upgrades at the airfield under its Pacific Aviation Investment Program (PAIP). The regional project will increase aviation safety and security across the Pacific by developing key airport infrastructure and operations. Under the deal, Airways will consult on the design and procurement of air navigation aids, air traffic control equipment and airfield ground lighting systems for the airport which is the main gateway to Samoa and its surrounding islands. The New Zealand state-owned enterprise will also project-manage the installation of the new systems. The award of this contract builds on the extensive work Airways is already undertaking across the Pacific, Airways Chief Operating Officer Pauline Lamb says. A significant element of Airways’ involvement with the Pacific is its joint agreement with Tonga, Samoa, Niue and the Cook Islands to manage the states’ upper airspace. Other services Airways provides throughout the Pacific include engineering and maintenance, flight inspection of navigation aids and flight procedures along with technical and air traffic control training.