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Amidst the unsettling news of Air Vanuatu’s grounding and subsequent liquidation, Virgin Australia has emerged as a beacon of hope, ensuring uninterrupted air connectivity between Australia and Vanuatu. The airline has not only stepped up but also increased its flights from Brisbane to Port Vila, elevating the frequency from three to five weekly services until the end of June, a move that is sure to bring relief to many.
This significant expansion is a response to the Australian Government’s request to lift capacity and a testament to Virgin Australia’s deep sense of duty and compassion. “We are deeply saddened to learn of Air Vanuatu being placed into liquidation,” a spokesperson for Virgin Australia expressed, their empathy palpable. The additional flights went on sale immediately, with the inaugural service having taken off on 12 May, a clear demonstration of their commitment to the cause.
The regular VA flights utilizing the B737-800 aircraft are scheduled for Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Flight VA53 will depart Brisbane at 10:40 am and arrive in Port Vila at 2:40 pm on Monday, Friday, and Saturday. The return flight, VA54, will leave Port Vila at 3:20 pm and return to Brisbane at 5:50 pm. The Wednesday and Sunday schedule sees a slightly later departure and arrival time.
In a proactive move, Virgin Australia has also applied to the International Air Services Commission for an increase in seat capacity allocation, with the ambition to launch an additional seven weekly services from various east coast cities to Vanuatu.
Air Vanuatu’s liquidation was announced last Friday, and Ernst & Young Australia (EY) was appointed liquidator. EY has voiced its commitment to prioritizing customers and resuming normal operations as swiftly as possible. “The primary focus… is to work with the existing management team to ensure that they can get the airline into a position where it’s on a more secure footing,” an EY spokesperson stated.
Fiji Airways, too, has pledged support by adding extra flights between Port Vila and Nadi. The first of these additional services commenced on 12 May. The airline will upgrade its aircraft to B737 MAX jets for these flights and is considering increasing capacity further if demand persists.
In a heartening display of unity, the travel industry has come together to assist those affected by Air Vanuatu’s situation. The Vanuatu Tourism Office, under the leadership of CEO Adela Issachar Aru, is actively collaborating with travel trade partners. Their joint efforts aim to provide stranded travellers with memorable experiences during their extended stay, a testament to the industry’s resilience and cooperative spirit.
As the Pacific region navigates this turbulent period, the solidarity and swift action of airlines and tourism bodies exemplify the industry’s resilience and cooperative spirit.
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