Air Vanuatu is evaluating the addition of a second ATR 72-600 as the state-owned airline continues rebuilding its domestic network and expanding its regional fleet following its liquidation in 2024.
The carrier currently operates a single ATR 72-600, making its domestic network vulnerable to capacity disruptions when the aircraft undergoes scheduled maintenance. The aircraft entered a heavy maintenance check on October 3 and is expected to return to service on November 5, temporarily reducing services to Santo and Tanna.
To maintain capacity between Port Vila and Santo during the maintenance period, Air Vanuatu has arranged additional Airbus A320 services operated by Solomon Airlines. Tanna continues to be served by Twin Otter aircraft.
Fleet expansion supports network recovery
Air Vanuatu is also preparing to add another government-owned Twin Otter to its fleet. The aircraft, registered YJ-AV16, is expected to arrive from the United States during October, increasing the airline’s Twin Otter fleet from four to five following registration and acceptance procedures.
The Vanuatu government has committed VT1.1 billion to acquire two additional Twin Otters, with one of the aircraft having been delivered in January 2026.
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The fleet expansion is supporting the restoration of Air Vanuatu’s domestic network. The airline resumed services to Ipota on September 6 and Dillon’s Bay on September 27, restoring scheduled connections to both airstrips on Erromango. Services to Aniwa are expected to resume once outstanding operational and regulatory requirements are completed.
Air Vanuatu said its operational performance has also improved, with on-time performance increasing from around 50% in June to 90%. Domestic fares have remained unchanged despite higher aviation fuel costs.
Focus on operational stability
Chief Executive Philippe Busson, who took over the role in August, is leading a restructuring programme focused on cost control, operational reliability and restoring the airline’s financial sustainability.
Beyond its domestic recovery, Air Vanuatu is exploring potential interline and codeshare partnerships with airlines in New Caledonia and Fiji, while continuing its existing cooperation with Solomon Airlines.
The airline’s longer-term strategy includes resuming regional international services using its own aircraft once its domestic network and fleet have reached greater operational stability.
