The inaugural Embraer E190 flight from Brisbane to Port Vila took place on Sunday, 30 March, marking a key development for Vanuatu’s tourism and trade sectors.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO), Adela Issachar Aru, said the new service expands connectivity in the Pacific and strengthens tourism and trade between Vanuatu and Australia.
“With three weekly flights from Brisbane, alongside Jetstar’s Sydney-Port Vila service, we are adding 150,000 seats annually between the two nations,” she said. “We are pleased to see this flight become a reality.”
She noted that Port Vila is one of four international routes launched by Qantas from Brisbane in the past year, showing the airline’s confidence in Vanuatu as a travel destination. “Whether you are visiting for leisure, recreation, or business, your journey today contributes to the sustainable future of our nation,” she added.
This expanded air connectivity is expected to attract more Australian visitors while also strengthening trade, particularly in agriculture, handicrafts, and hospitality. “From an economic standpoint, this partnership supports our local economy and broader Pacific regional development,” Aru said.
Prime Minister Jotham Napat described the new flight as a step toward sustainable growth in tourism and trade.
He thanked Qantas, its partner Alliance Airlines, and local aviation partners for their commitment to Vanuatu. “This collaboration aligns with Vanuatu’s vision of building a resilient economy powered by innovation and global partnerships,” he said. He also acknowledged Australia’s ongoing support through the Aviation Support Programme, which plays a key role in trade relations.
“To our Australian friends and travelers worldwide, Vanuatu welcomes you with open arms, rich culture, and the warmest smiles in the Pacific. Let us continue to celebrate these achievements as a testament to Vanuatu’s progress and enduring spirit,” he added.
Deputy High Commissioner of Australia to Vanuatu, Laura Frech Cardenas, noted that the flight supports Vanuatu’s recovery from the December 2024 earthquake.
“Today’s flight is another step in Vanuatu’s recovery and determination to keep moving forward. It reinforces Vanuatu’s status as a strong tourism destination, particularly for Australians,” she said.
Cardenas noted that Australia accounts for over 60 percent of Vanuatu’s tourism market share. “Australians love coming to Vanuatu, and that is why we remain Vanuatu’s largest economic partner. Increasing flight frequency and establishing new market partnerships will strengthen Vanuatu’s tourism and economy while fostering closer ties between our nations,” she said.
With a flight time of just 2.5 hours, she said Australia and Vanuatu are more than neighbours—they are close friends. She also noted that discussions at the recent Vanuatu-Australia Business Week explored Vanuatu’s potential as a premier travel destination, offering diverse landscapes, pristine beaches, lush forests, volcanoes, blue holes, and vibrant cultural experiences across its 83 islands.
CEO Aru reaffirmed Vanuatu’s commitment to welcoming visitors, particularly Australian travellers, and encouraged them to continue enjoying the nation’s hospitality.
“To our tourism and trade partners, we are here to foster meaningful connections and ensure a bright future for Vanuatu’s economy,” she said.
