A crew member on a revamped Samoa Airways aircraft was injured after it veered off the runway while landing at Fitiuta Airport in American Samoa.
Initial reports indicated that the DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft encountered strong crosswinds during its final approach and landing on Tuesday morning (American Samoa Time), Samoa Airways said in a statement.
“The aircraft had five people on board, two pilots and three passengers, including a staff member. One passenger sustained a leg injury and is receiving medical treatment at Fitiuta Clinic,” said the statement.
The airline has activated its emergency response procedures and is working with aviation authorities, airport officials and emergency services to support the investigation and provide assistance.
“Samoa Airways commends the crew for their professionalism and actions in prioritizing the safety of everyone on board. The circumstances surrounding the incident are being assessed in line with standard aviation safety procedures,” it added.
A statement by the American Samoan Port administration said the aircraft would remain where it came to a stop until further investigation by the US National Transportation Safety Board.
The Port Administration has secured the immediate area until the investigation is completed. The airport remains a secure facility, off limits to the public at all hours of the day.
Meanwhile, the Samoa Observer reported that the plane recently underwent a NZ$14 million overhaul and refurbishment by Unity Aviation Canada Ltd.
The 46-year-old aircraft had been operating for 28 years and the overhaul, that began in September last year, was expected to extend the plane’s operational life by another 30 years.
