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Connecting Vanuatu's islands to the world.
Founded
1981
Headquarters
Port Vila, Vanuatu
Air Vanuatu is the flag carrier of the Republic of Vanuatu, a Pacific island nation comprising over 80 islands. Founded in 1981, the airline has historically served as the primary link between Vanuatu's remote island communities and its capital, Port Vila, as well as providing international connections to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and other Pacific destinations.
The airline faced significant financial difficulties in 2023, leading to the suspension of its operations in May 2023 after entering voluntary liquidation. The Vanuatu government subsequently worked on plans to restructure and revive the national carrier, recognizing its critical role in connecting the archipelago's scattered communities and supporting the tourism-dependent economy.
At its operational peak, Air Vanuatu operated both domestic routes across the Vanuatu archipelago and international services to key regional hubs, using a mixed fleet of turboprop and jet aircraft suited to both short island-hop flights and longer transoceanic routes.
Hubs & network
Air Vanuatu's primary hub is Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, Efate.
Fleet
Air Vanuatu historically operated ATR 72 turboprop aircraft for domestic routes and Boeing 737-800s for international services.
Notable facts
- ›Air Vanuatu suspended all operations in May 2023 after entering voluntary liquidation.
- ›The airline served as the sole flag carrier of Vanuatu since its founding in 1981.
- ›International routes included services to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and New Caledonia.
- ›The Vanuatu government held a majority stake in the airline.
- ›Domestic operations were vital for connecting over 80 islands with limited surface transport options.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
