'I don't want to travel anymore': Sāmoa government urged to reconsider fee hike

The Sāmoan government is facing a backlash from local travellers due to a hike in airport departure taxes.

From Sunday, travellers aged 12 years old and older will pay an extra WST80 (approx. US$28) to depart the country. A new tax - the aerodrome facility charge - of WST100 (approx. US$35) will also apply to all departing passengers.

The increase in airport fees comes following Sāmoa's Head of State signing off on a law concerning the Sāmoa Airport Authority this month.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has already raised concerns about the impact this could have on airlines.

It is understood the IATA has been involved in lobbying Sāmoa's government on behalf of the airlines to reconsider the levies.

Talofa Airways director Jeffrey Hunter told RNZ Pacific on Tuesday the fee increase would make make it impossible for some Sāmoans to travel altogether.

Talofa Airways director Jeffrey Hunter says the fee increase could make it difficult for some Sāmoans to travel. Photo/Talofa Airways plane/Facebook

'A lot of angry people'

RNZ Pacific's Sāmoa correspondent Galumalemana Tipi Autagavaia said there is widespread public discontent from Samoans.

He said there are calls for Prime Minister La'aulialemalietoa (La'auli) Polataivao Leuatea Fosi Schmidt to step in.

"I've seen a lot of angry people on social media complaining [and] criticising the new increase in fees," he said.

"Any increase in fares or government services, [not everyone is] happy with it."

He said the aerodrome facility tax is something new.

"It's the first time we've heard [of] this tax. I'm hoping that the Sāmoa Airport Authority will release more details of this new fee. I can't remember the last time there was an increase," he said.

Sāmoa officials explain the rise in airport departure taxes

He said no one saw it coming when Sāmoa Airways put up a notice for the information of their passengers and their travelling partners.

Galumalemana is hoping the government will reconsider its decision.

"Maybe put [the increase in taxes] on hold until such time that everyone is ready and needs more time to have consultation with members of the public.

"I don't want to travel anymore if this is going to be the new fee."

La'auli said the aerodrome tax was needed to ensure funds were available for repairs to equipment, the Samoa Observer reported on Friday.

According to the newspaper, the prime minister said the Sāmoa Airports Authority would be releasing a statement regarding the increase.

This story was first published by RNZ Pacific and has been adapted to reflect our editorial style.