Samoa Airways Cancels Flights After Drug, Alcohol Test Failures

Samoa Airways canceled all scheduled flights on February 12 after mandatory drug and alcohol tests revealed 10% of employees tested positive for illicit substances and alcohol. The airline had to charter aircraft from competitor Talofa Airways, costing USD 30,000, to manage operations.

The Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) conducted the tests under the airline’s strict drug and alcohol policy. Three employees tested positive for methamphetamine, amphetamine, and cannabis and were immediately suspended, pending a board decision. Additionally, six employees tested positive for alcohol and received warning letters, with follow-up tests still ongoing.

A pilot who initially tested positive for prescription sleeping pills was stood down but later returned to work after a negative retest. CEO Fauo’o Fatu Tielu explained the operational impact, citing a staffing shortage as several pilots were on sick or annual leave while others had exceeded their flying hours.

Samoa Airways operates two DHC-6-300s, flying between Apia Faleolo and Pago Pago, as well as other destinations within American Samoa. As the ground handler for carriers like Air New Zealand and Fiji Airways, the airline emphasized the importance of upholding workplace safety and public trust.

“Safety remains our top priority,” the airline said in a statement. “While cancellations caused inconvenience, they underscore our commitment to the highest safety standards.”

The airline reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on substance use, ensuring passenger and crew safety on all routes.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com