Joint Venture between Virgin Blue and Samoan Government results in New Airline 'Polynesian Blue'

Australia-based low cost airline, Virgin Blue, has signed an agreement with the Samoan Government to operate a joint venture airline called “Polynesian Blue”.

The new airline involves the Samoan Government and Virgin Blue joining forces to set up a new company that will operate jet routes presently flown by Polynesian Airlines from late October 2005. Polynesian Airlines will continue to operate its existing successful turboprop aircraft and ground handling divisions.

Polynesian Blue will be 49% owned by the Samoan Government, 49% owned by Virgin Blue with the remaining 2% to be held by an independent Samoan shareholder.

The airline will operate flights from Samoa to Australia and New Zealand using Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The aircraft will have its own Polynesian Blue livery; featuring a red body and a palm tree on the tail along with the familiar Virgin Blue “boomerang”.

Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey said, “This is an exciting project for Virgin Blue and we are very happy to be partnering with the Samoan Government to offer a viable and affordable airline option to both the people of Samoa as well as the thousands of tourists who will visit the beautiful islands.”

The Hon Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister of Samoa added, “Virgin Blue began the low fare revolution in this region and has become a key player in the market. We want to ensure that Samoa has competitive air services and participates fully in the growing tourism market to the Pacific Islands. Virgin Blue has understood this from day one and is clearly the best partner for our Government and our people. We are very pleased to have them on board with us in this innovative joint venture.”

Polynesian Blue aircraft will be operated by New Zealand based Pacific Blue and pilots and cabin crew are being recruited from within Polynesian Airlines as well as externally.

The first Polynesian Blue flight from New Zealand to Samoa (with connections from Australia) is expected to take off in late October 2005, subject to final Government approvals.

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