NOAA hurricane aircraft carries out its special mission in American Samoa

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Congresswoman Aumua Amata toured and discussed the special mission of the “hurricane hunter” aircraft the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) currently has in American Samoa.

“I appreciate the opportunity to hear the details of this unique aircraft and it’s important research,” said Aumua Amata. “I also welcome the fact that they are here in American Samoa. Every year there’s always some risk from the tropical storms that develop in the Pacific, like Storm Gita. The scientific knowledge gained over years of storm research will save lives and help in storm preparations.”

AA’s team on this high-altitude aircraft takes readings from above during hurricanes and as tropical storms develop. Read more about NOAA’s Gulfstream jet and it’s interesting tropical cyclone research here.

NOAA’s professional team discussed their aircraft’s capabilities with Congresswoman Amata. [courtesy photo]