The head of Polynesian Airlines, Samoa's national carrier, says the increase in entry permits for American Samoans to Samoa will negatively impact its business and other airlines on the inter Samoa route.
Taua Fata Tielu says he hopes the two governments will find a wayto encourage travel between the two Samoas, so that travellers, the airlines and the two countries will all be winners.
Taua's remarks echoes statements made by an official of the American Samoa-based South Pacific Express Inc or SPEX.
Vince Haleck said that passengers loads on its flights have taken a dive and he attributes this to the permit regulations.
As a result of the slow traffic he said SPEX is delaying plans to bring its second aircraft on line.
