Vanuatu Welcomes Air Calédonie’s Return, Strengthening Ties with New Caledonia
October 3, 2024 11:03 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Ezra Toara.
The Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) welcomed Air Calédonie back to Vanuatu yesterday, with the arrival of the first flight in several years, marking a key moment in the aviation and tourism sectors.
The Government of Vanuatu is delighted by the re-establishment of this vital connection.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Glenn Wadra, the New Caledonian Government Representative, emphasised the importance of this new air route. “It is with great joy and pride that I stand before you today on this memorable day, October 3, 2024, marking the beginning of a new phase of air cooperation between our two countries,” said Wadra.
He explained that the route, operated by an ATR 72-600 aircraft, will fly from La Tontouta International Airport to Port Vila twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays, through a partnership with Aircalin.
Wadra described the route as a reflection of New Caledonia’s commitment to maintaining and deepening ties with its Pacific neighbours, particularly Vanuatu. “This route represents an opportunity to sustain regular services with Vanuatu, a country dear to us despite the challenges we’ve faced,” he said, noting that the new air route acts as a bridge between the cultures, people, and economies of both nations.
Acting Minister of Tourism, and Minister of Finance and Economic Management, Johnny Koanapo, shared similar views. He spoke about the importance of the air route, not only for tourism but for economic and cultural exchanges between the two nations. “Air Calédonie’s reputation for excellence in aviation is well known, and we are pleased to see the airline expand its services to our archipelago,” said Koanapo.
Minister Koanapo pointed out Vanuatu’s potential as a unique travel destination, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultures, welcoming visitors from New Caledonia and beyond. “This route will not only make travel easier for tourists but also foster greater connections between our communities,” he added.
Mr. Sébastien Jaunatre, Deputy Head of Mission at the French Embassy, also expressed pride in the launch of the new route. He said the flight was an important step in strengthening ties between New Caledonia and Vanuatu and opened up new opportunities for tourism, economic growth, and cultural exchanges.
He thanked Air Calédonie’s management for their vision and commitment to improving connectivity in the region.
Loic Bernier, Chairman of the Vanuatu Hotels and Resorts Associaton (VHRA), praised the new direct air link, stating that it would boost tourism, trade, and investment between the two nations. With two weekly flights from Nouméa to Port Vila, Bernier noted that the route would offer greater flexibility for travellers and create more opportunities for cultural exchanges.
“This new connection will also attract visitors from long-haul markets like France, contributing to the economic prosperity of both nations,” said Bernier.
The event concluded with expressions of thanks to the governments of Vanuatu and New Caledonia, along with key partners like Air Calédonie and Aircalin, for making this air route possible.
The speakers stressed the role of civil aviation in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the route, which is expected to bring economic benefits and strengthen cultural ties between the two Pacific nations.
