Qantas Airways Launches New Service to Vanuatu, Adding 150,000 Seats Per Year

September 11, 2024 4:37 am | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Doddy Morris

The arrival of Qantas Airways to Port Vila International Airport yesterday will provide an additional 150,000 seats per year to Vanuatu.

This statement was stated by the Minister of Trade and Commerce, Bob Loughman, during the welcome ceremony of Qantas Airways first arrival to Vanuatu via flight QF159, arriving with 180 guest, including Deputy Prime Minister (DPM), Matai Seremaiah and Minister of Finance, Johnny Koanapo.

“This development will undoubtedly boost our tourism sector, stimulate economic growth, and create new opportunities for local businesses. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts on our communities. This service will provide an additional 150,000 seats per year to Vanuatu,” he said.

According to a media statement issued by Qantas, the new route offers three direct flights per week from the Sunshine State, and from 12 December 2024, Jetstar will also offer up to four weekly flights between Sydney and Port Vila.

“Across both airlines this will create more than 150,000 new seats each year between Australia and Vanuatu and making it easier than ever for Australians to experience the beaches, rich culture, and unique adventures that Vanuatu has to offer,” Qantas stated.

“The new flights will promote tourism between Australia and Vanuatu, strengthening economic ties and providing a boost to the local economy and tourism economy of the broader Pacific region, encouraging ongoing Australian visitation to the island capital.” 

In his remarks, Minister Loughman also welcomed the 180 guests that arrived on yesterday’s flight, and warm greetings are extended to the DPM and Minister of Finance, who were honored guests on behalf of Qantas to join in on this first inaugural flight of Qantas into Vanuatu today.

“We are here today because of the hardworking commitment of many of the stakeholders around the room. Thank you for your hard work and unwavering commitment to foster trade relations and enhance connectivity, which has made such an event possible,” he stated.

“Thank you to the Government of Australia for your invaluable assistance through the Aviation Support Program, ensuring that we are strengthening our aviation sector for further connectivity growth into the future. A number of key projects are underway for both airline and aviation support, so thank you for this.”

Loughman added that the launch of Qantas as a new service to Vanuatu opens up a world of possibilities for travelers, businesses, and communities on both sides of the Pacific.

“Australia represents over 60% of our tourist market share, so increasing the frequency of flights and welcoming new partners from this market is a strategic opportunity to strengthen our tourism goals and help our industry recover,’’ Minister Loughman added.

“I urge all partners in the business and tourism sectors to embrace today’s flight and request that we work with the Qantas team to grow trade through our services for tourism, investment, and goods through our exports of Vanuatu-made commodities.”

Adela Issachar Aru, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO), stated that yesterday is not just the arrival of a new airline service, but the beginning of an exciting chapter for Vanuatu’s tourism sector.

“This partnership with Qantas is a testament to our commitment to enhancing connectivity and showcasing the unparalleled beauty culture and worth of our nation to the world,” she said.

“To our friends from Qantas, thank you for believing in Vanuatu and for making this journey possible today. We are confident that this new flight will open greater doors for tourism fostering economic growth and strengthen the bonds between our nations.”

Australian High Commissioner, Max Willis, said Qantas is just one of four regional airlines that have increased their services into Vanuatu recently.

“We also like to acknowledged Solomon Airlines, Air Niugini, Virgin Australia and then soon Jetstar, to dramatically boost the connectivity from Vanuatu into the region. This regional link is a shining example of our Pacific region collaborating and working together,” he said.

Qantas also stated that the new service will be operated by a Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. All Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, and seat selection. Qantas Frequent Flyers will also earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on eligible flights.

Fast Facts according to Qantas

• Route: Brisbane (BNE) to Port Vila (VLI)

• Return fares: Starting from $796 in economy and $3,506 in business class

• Flight numbers: QF159 Brisbane to Port Vila, QF160 Port Vila to Brisbane.

• Frequency: Three times weekly (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday)

• Duration: 3 hours

• Aircraft: Boeing 737-800, 12 business class and 162 economy seats

Qantas history of flying to Vanuatu

• Operated Empire Flying Boats as charters between Noumea and Port Vila in WW2 carrying troops and freight including 1-tonne of gold bullion.

• In the 1960s when Qantas owned Fiji Airways, regular services were operated between Nadi and Port Vila.