Virgin to launch 'Polynesian Blue'

Australian discount airline Virgin Blue has signed an agreement with the Samoan Government to operate a joint venture called "Polynesian Blue".

The new airline will take to the skies from October, flying Boeing 737-800s from Samoa to Australia and New Zealand -- routes currently flown by Polynesian Airlines.

Polynesian Airlines will continue to operate its turboprop aircraft and ground handling divisions.

Virgin Blue and the Samoan Government will each own a 49 per cent stake, with the remaining 2 per cent held by an independent Samoan shareholder.

Polynesian Blue will assume Virgin's trademark low-cost structure and budget fares. 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".

"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," Virgin Blue chief executive Brett Godfrey said.

Samoan Prime Minister Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi said the move would ensure Samoan airfares were competitive, allowing it to make the most of the growing Pacific Island tourism market.

The Polynesian Blue aircraft will be operated by New Zealand-based Pacific Blue. The airline is currently recruiting pilots and cabin crew from within Polynesian Airlines and externally.

- NZPA