In a significant development, the liquidators of Air Vanuatu (Operations) Limited (In Liquidation) have announced the resumption of reduced services through scheduled charter flights starting the week of August 5, 2024. This move marks a critical step toward fully reinstating the airline’s domestic services, a vital lifeline for the island nation.
This announcement follows the resumption of Air Vanuatu’s training and verification flights last month, made possible through the support of the Civil Aviation Authority and the Vanuatu Government. These efforts underscore the collaborative approach to revitalize the airline amidst its ongoing liquidation process.
The specifics of the scheduled charter flights, including the proposed schedule and the booking process, will be disclosed to the public shortly. Passengers should note that pre-liquidation tickets will not be accepted for these flights, ensuring a fresh start in the booking and service process.
Morgan Kelly, the Liquidator and Partner in Strategy & Transactions at EY, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, “The resumption of Air Vanuatu flights is critical for the restructuring of Air Vanuatu. Our focus remains on recommencing services in a safe and reliable manner. The planned recommencement of scheduled charter flights is another step towards the full resumption of domestic services. I’d again like to thank the Civil Aviation Authority Vanuatu and Vanuatu Government for their support of this critical part of the country’s infrastructure.”
Air Vanuatu’s domestic operations are essential for the population of approximately 300,000 people spread across more than 60 islands. The airline is a crucial connector, facilitating travel and transport across the archipelago. The timing for the resumption of international operations remains undetermined as the airline focuses on stabilizing its domestic services first.
The ongoing restructuring and gradual service resumption signify a beacon of hope for Air Vanuatu and its stakeholders. The airline’s revival is a business necessity and a pivotal component of Vanuatu’s national infrastructure, impacting everyday life and economic stability.
As Air Vanuatu navigates through its liquidation process, the combined efforts of the liquidators, the government, and the Civil Aviation Authority will ensure a seamless and efficient transition back to total operational capacity. The public is urged to stay tuned for further updates regarding the booking procedures and flight schedules.
This cautious yet determined approach to resuming operations reflects Air Vanuatu’s commitment to serving its passengers and supporting the nation’s connectivity needs. The coming weeks will be instrumental in laying down the groundwork for a robust and resilient Air Vanuatu, poised to reclaim its role as a cornerstone of Vanuatu’s transportation network.
Written by: Octavia Koo
