Michael Buble
Michael Buble

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Air Vanuatu resumes Australia and NZ services, albeit later than expected

Nearly two weeks after grounding flights on account of mechanical issues with its Boeing 737, Air Vanuatu has resumed flying to/from Australia and New Zealand.

Nearly two weeks after grounding flights on account of mechanical issues with its Boeing 737, Air Vanuatu has resumed flying to/from Australia and New Zealand.

Back to its normal schedule, Air Vanuatu recommenced Port Vila-Sydney and Brisbane, and Port Vila-Auckland services over the weekend (15 April). 

The carrier says it will continue to provide support for guests whose flights have been disrupted, while full re-ticketing and refund policies remain in place.

Travel advisors can check the advisory page on the airline’s website for more information – https://www.airvanuatu.com/travel-info/travel-advisories/flight-cancellation-advisory.

Current flight schedules are available here.

2 September 2016, Rah Island, Vanuatu. Snake dancer with bodypaint traditional show performance on the beach in Rah Island, Vanuatu.
Rah Island, Vanuatu.

Praise for Pacific partners

“Air Vanuatu sincerely apologises to guests that have been affected by the recent disruptions,” an Air Vanuatu spokesperson said. 

“The airline is deeply regretful of the situation and extends its appreciation to affected guests for their patience. 

“It also extends its thanks to Nauru Airlines and Solomon Airlines for their support in successfully helping uplift as many guests between Port Vila and Australia and New Zealand as possible during this time. 

“Safety is Air Vanuatu’s number one priority, and the airline is so pleased to welcome passengers back on the Australia and New Zealand routes with its signature warm Pacific welcome.”

Air Vanuatu announced on 3 April that the B737 it uses for its Aussie east coast and Auckland services would be grounded until it received urgent mechanical parts. It originally anticipated services would be grounded for about five days and then around 10 days, but was forced to extend the event while it waited for parts to arrive from Southeast Asia.