‘With the elevation of the resorts in Samoa, this is a great option not only for leisure but also for business – the meetings and incentive market is one of interest to us and we are focusing on that.
‘We’re getting positive feedback on our group booking tool, it’s great for VFR and church community, sporting and education groups as well as business events.’
The airline also has 25% off base fares for children and infants on the route. ‘Qantas is proud to be the first carrier to offer child fares to Samoa,’ adds Slee.
Qantas exhibited at the Samoa Tourism Exchange last week and Slee says the reception from trade buyers has been extremely positive.
‘They are welcoming another option on the route, with our Kiwi crewed full-service carrier and reliable, free wifi as well as a 30-kilo baggage allowance in economy.’
The service launches on 16 June (the same day as a new service from AKL to the Gold Coast). QF will fly AKL-APW three times a week initially, departing Auckland at 5.55pm and arriving 1.45pm, with the return departing at 6.40am.
Slee says there is potential to evolve the schedule. ‘It’s new for Qantas to fly to a Pacific destination from New Zealand and we’re committed to the destination.’
