A SAAB aircraft successfully landed at Ha’apai Airport this week following recent runway extensions that now enable the airport to accommodate larger aircraft.
Social media footage captured the milestone moment, showing the Chatham SAAB touching down on the newly expanded runway.
The footage, showing the SAAB’s historic landing, was uploaded to Facebook by Lindsay Walter, who identified herself as an airport terminal worker in Ha‘apai.
It shows what appears to be a brand-new, black-coloured runway at Ha’apai Airport—a key upgrade that enabled the historic SAAB landing.
The fresh surfacing contrasts sharply with the island’s previous infrastructure limitations.
“This is a game-changer for our island,” a commenter wrote in Tongan.
“After years of limited air access, we can now welcome larger planes like the SAAB for the first time.”
The successful landing comes as the government confirms Lulutai Airlines’ full operational status, marking a dual advancement for Tonga’s aviation sector following previous controversies.
The government said the infrastructure upgrade could significantly improve tourism and economic opportunities for Ha’apai.
