Asau Airport - Gateway to the Center!
Introduction
With the well-manicured landscape of Savai'i as its backdrop, Asau Airport (IATA: AAU, ICAO: NSAU) is a diminutive remote aerodrome and landing strip located in essential domestic air-transport links for Samoa. Established in 1969 and then rebuilt post the Cyclone Ofa wash-off, this airport has been instrumental in transporting even the most far-away areas of Samoa with the help of the rest of the globe.
Airlines and Destinations
There are basically just chartered flights in and out of Asau Airport since it is serving the much smaller Savai'i. Although no scheduled commercial flights are operated to or from Faleolo, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting Samoa's outlying islands with Tutuila and other parts of the world through private and chartered aviation.
Passenger and Flight Numbers
Given its small regional status, Asau Airport has minimal passenger traffic and thus services. But with the airport's strategic value and its important role in serving Samoa, it is an integral part of the country's transport infrastructure to support tourism.
How to Get Here
Getting to Asau Airport can be an experience in itself, as it is situated at the very far northwestern edge of Savai'i. The closest sizable town is Safotu, about 25 kilometers (16 miles) away. The airport can be reached by road, and a range of options for rent-a-car, taxi travel, or bus will get you to your destination.
Parking
At the Asau Airport, parking is minimal with a small lot for visitors. Arriving and departing travelers may want to make time allowance for parking, as few spaces are available, especially during high travel times.
Transportation Price
The price of getting to Asau Airport by transport may differ depending on the type and number of options used. They can be rented from rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services at affordable prices or more expensive compared to the price of wine.
Terminal Layout
A tiny single-terminal facility, Asau Airport serves the limited needs of its private and chartered aviation passenger base. Facilities include check-in counters, a waiting area, and other basic services, all located in the terminal building.
Navigate the Airport
Asau Airport, although small in size, is equipped to handle the various requirements of travelers. Way-finding in the terminal is clear, and staff are available to answer passenger questions.
Getting Between Terminals
Since Asau Airport features one terminal, passengers do not need to switch between terminals. Everything happens inside the relatively small building, with arrivals and departures at one place.
Services and Amenities
Asau Airport might not boast the same wide array of services and amenities as larger international airports, but it has all basic travel necessities. These do include a waiting room, lavatories, and some light concessions.
Restaurants and Shops
Food & beverage options on-site at Asau Airport are limited to a small café or snack bar, and there is little in the way of shopping amenities. However, anyone looking for more variety in terms of dining and retail is better off exiting the airport gates.
Security and Customs
As a national airport, the security and customs section is quite simple at Asau Airport. This screening standard and immigration formalities are in line with regional Pacific standards, rather than anything barring passengers from standards prevalent at other airports.
Accessibility
They Offer Services to Passengers with Disabilities and Other Needs. The terminal building and facilities have been designed to be accessible, with assistance on hand from airport staff as needed.
Travel Tips
Samoa is not that close to other countries, so Asau Airport does not have a good choice of flights and is limited. Travelers should get there early, pack what they need, and not expect the same amenities as at bigger international airports.