ABC Radio Australia
24/12/2004, 14:55:23
Samoa chooses Virgin Blue as partner in Polynesian Airlines
The Samoan Government has chosen Virgin Blue, over Qantas and Air New Zealand, to be its joint venture partner in Polynesian Airlines.
Our reporter, Sean Dorney, says the Samoan government has been seeking a partner for some time to buy up to 49 per cent of Polynesian Airlines.
Virgin Blue's Public and Media Relations Manager, Amanda Bolger, has confirmed the deal but says the full details of the joint venture operation need to be worked through.
"Virgin Blue is delighted to be named as the Samoan Government's preferred airline partner among the tenderers," she said.
"And we're certainly looking foward to some detailed negotiations over coming weeks with the Samoan government.
Reports from the Samoan capital, Apia, say the joint venture, to be called Polynesian Blue, will be flying as Samoa's international carrier in the first half of 2005.
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Pic Polynesian 737-800 SW-SAO on approach to Brisbane
http://jetphotos.net/viewphoto.php?id=27211
Photo: Wirraway
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