Victorians will have a new tropical destination to escape to once Air Vanuatu begins flying from Melbourne to Port Vila, located on Vanuatu’s Efate Island, in June.
Vanuatu’s national carrier will launch its non-stop service on Tuesday 18 June 2019, flying three times per week out of Melbourne.
Tickets are now on sale for the four hour service, which will depart Melbourne on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation Simon Gandy said he was pleased to welcome Air Vanuatu to Melbourne, giving travellers easy access to a new holiday destination.
“We are delighted to welcome back Air Vanuatu to the Melbourne Airport family. This new direct service adds the exciting destination of Port Vila, Vanuatu, to our schedule allowing Melburnians to explore the capital city’s colourful mix of shops, restaurants, markets and beaches,” said Mr Gandy.
“Port Vila is also a hub for Air Vanuatu, which gives travellers the ability to fly to 28 destinations on the airline’s extensive domestic network.
“We know the South Pacific islands are popular with our travellers, so it’s great to introduce this non-stop flight on a full-service carrier, making the journey easier for people in both Melbourne and Port Vila.
“The route also creates another entry point into Fiji and Noumea via Vanuatu, another win for holidaymakers.”
Derek Nice, Air Vanuatu’s Managing Director and CEO, said he is thrilled to be launching the only direct service between Melbourne and Vanuatu.
“The launch of this new route will be particularly exciting for people living in Melbourne who have already discovered the wonders of Vanuatu and can’t wait to go back. They can travel non-stop, on conveniently timed flights, giving them more time in our island paradise,” said Mr Nice.
“Subject to regulatory and government approval, we are also pleased to add code-sharing with Qantas on the new service,” he concluded.
Melbourne Airport is now home to 36 international airlines and facilitates flights to 42 international destinations.