Air Vanuatu

Air Vanuatu is the national carrier of Vanuatu and functions mainly as a regional/full-service flag carrier from a traveler’s perspective, concentrating on domestic inter-island connectivity and short regional international routes across the South Pacific. The airline’s route network prioritizes point-to-point links between Port Vila (Bauerfield, VLI), other islands in Vanuatu, and nearby international destinations in the Pacific and Australia.

The carrier is not a member of a major global airline alliance; its network and partnerships are smaller and more regionally focused than large international airlines, so international connections and through-ticketing can be more limited-check schedules and partner arrangements when booking.

Where Air Vanuatu Flies

The airline operates from its main base at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila and focuses on domestic inter-island services within Vanuatu plus regional international routes across the South Pacific and to nearby countries such as Australia and other Pacific island nations. Many of its services are point-to-point connections that link small airfields and communities; ATR turboprops provide the backbone for higher-capacity short international sectors while smaller aircraft serve remote strips. Codeshare and alliance reach is limited compared with larger carriers, so check available partner connections when planning itineraries.

Hubs

• Bauerfield International Airport · VLI

Aircraft and Cabin Classes

Air Vanuatu operates a mixed roster suited to island operations and short regional international routes: very small, STOL-capable aircraft (such as Twin Otters, Islanders and similar types) are used for the shortest inter-island hops; ATR 42/72 turboprops handle higher-capacity short regional services; and narrowbody jets are used on the carrier’s longer international sectors. Most domestic and inter-island flights on the small turboprops are single-class (economy) layouts appropriate for short hops; ATRs are typically economy-configured for regional services, while jet-operated international flights may feature a two-cabin layout with a small premium section plus economy.

Aircraft types operated: Harbin Y-12, de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter, Britten-Norman BN-2 Islander, ATR 42, ATR 72, Douglas DC-9, Boeing 737

Tips for Flying Air Vanuatu

• Baggage allowances on small inter-island aircraft are often strict and weight-based, so check the limit for your specific flight and pack accordingly.
• Allow extra connection time at Port Vila (Bauerfield, VLI) when transferring between island turboprops and larger regional jets.
• Don’t assume meals are provided on short domestic hops-bring snacks on short flights between islands.
• Seat selection, online check-in availability, and carry-on size rules can vary by aircraft type and route, so confirm details at booking or with the airline.