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Vanuatu is a breathtaking island nation that provides a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life with its pristine landscapes and crystal-clear waters. This volcanic archipelago, located approximately 1,750 kilometres east of Australia, consists of 80 islands stretching over 1,300 kilometers. Rich in culture and natural beauty, this island is also well-connected by several airports in Vanuatu . Historically, European explorers referred to these islands as the New Hebrides. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key airports in this island paradise.
The Famous Airports in Vanuatu
The perfect vacation is right here in Vanuatu. For those planning a trip, here are a few listings of the various popular airports in Vanuatu that you need to know.
1. Anatom Airport
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It is also known as the Aneityum Airport, which is meant for the people residing on this island. It is located on the smaller Inyeug Island in the Tafea province. The airport is at an elevation of 7 feet above sea level with one runway which is 610 meters in length. The flight fares from Anatom range from economical to expensive. One can fly to Brisbane, Noumea, and Tanna from Anatom Airport. The Anatom airport is also known as the Mystery Island Airport where many people travel to discover the unknown facets of the area.
Location: Tafea Province, Vanuatu
2. Lonorore Airport
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The airport is located in the middle of an old coconut plantation and was built during colonial times as a private airstrip. The airport was previously unusable during the rainy season due to its odd location, which resulted in waterlogging most of the time. But it was upgraded in 2008-2009 and now it is capable of operating under different weather conditions. Domestic flights to Port Vila and Santo fly regularly. Schedules change but flights are running twice or thrice throughout the week. The airport welcomes many day trippers from Port Vila from April to June to watch the weekly land diving ceremonies.
Location: South Western Pentecost Island, Vanuatu
3. Bauerfield International Airport
Photo: YSSYguy / Wikimedia Commons
Bauerfield International Airport is a key gateway for tourists visiting Vanuatu, thanks to its strategic location in the capital, Port Vila. Despite its modest size, the airport features a runway capable of accommodating jets as large as the Airbus A330. Serving as the main hub for Air Vanuatu, it plays a crucial role in both domestic and international travel. In December 2024, an earthquake in Port Vila caused structural damage, leading to the suspension of non-humanitarian flights. After repairs, operations resumed on December 22, restoring connectivity to this travel hub.
Location: Port Vila, Vanuatu
4. Dillon’s Bay Airport
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Dillon’s Bay Airport is situated on the island of Erromango in Vanuatu’s Tafea Province. It is one of two notable airfields in the region, with the other being Ipota Airport to the east. Positioned at an elevation of 538 feet above sea level, the airport features a single runway measuring 660 meters in length. The area experiences a tropical rainforest climate, making it a lush and scenic location for travellers. Flight tickets for Dillon’s Bay Airport can be booked through various travel platforms.
Location: Dillon’s Bay in the Tafea Province, Vanuatu
5. Santo International Airport
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It is located in Luganville on Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu. The airport was previously known as the Santo Pekoa International Airport before being renamed as the above on 16 June 2021. Airports Vanuatu Limited offers aviation services in this airport. Two airline services fly regularly from this airport. One is Air Vanuatu traveling to Gaua, Longa, Lonorore, Maewo, Mota Lava, Norsup, and Port Vila and the other is the Solomon Airlines traveling to Brisbane, Honiara, and Port Vila.
Location: Luganville on Espiritu Santo,Vanuatu
6. Malekoula Airport
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This airport is also known as the Lamap Airport which is situated on the island of Malekoula in the Malampa province of Vanuatu. The airport is at a height of 7 feet above mean sea level and has one runway which is 840 metres in length. There is another airport towards the north, the Norsup Airport. The airline Air Vanuatu flies people from here to Port Vila. These are small airports and can accommodate a limited number of people.
Location: Near Lamap on the island of Malekoula, Malampa province in Vanuatu
7. Paama Airport
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Paama Airport is located on Paama Island in Vanuatu’s Malampa Province. The island experiences a tropical rainforest climate, contributing to its lush and vibrant landscape. Situated just 7 feet above sea level, Paama is home to three airports: Ulei, Paama, and Lamen Bay. While primarily serving as a domestic airport, it facilitates travel for residents and visitors flying to and from the island. Although a limited number of international flights may operate, the airport mainly caters to domestic travel needs.
Location: Paama Island, Malampa province of Vanuatu
8. Ulei Airport
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It is a small airport on Ambrym Island in Vanuatu. Air Vanuatu airline services cater to passengers traveling to Craig Cove, Tavie, and Bauerfield International. This airport is not as large as most of the famous airports. This is a small regional domestic airport with a limited number of international flights. This airport provides necessary services to the passengers flying in and out of the region.
Location: Ambrym Island, Vanuatu
9. Mota Lava Airport
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It is located on the island of Mota Lava which is one of the bank islands in the Torba Province of Vanuatu. This airport is also known as the Value Airport and lies on the eastern end of Motalava Island, near the village of Aplow. Positioned at a height of 63 feet above mean sea level, it has one runway that is 900 metres in length. Air Vanuatu coordinates and maintains all the facilities related to this airport. Valua Airport is at a distance of 12 kilometers from the island’s main centre.
Location: Mota Lava in the Torba Province of Vanuatu
10. Valesdir Airport
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An airport located in Valesdir, Epi, Vanuatu, and at a height of 10 feet from sea level. This is an airport from where both domestic and international flights operate regularly. Tickets are available at reasonable fares if booked through the correct booking site. A small airport that runs efficiently and has flights travelling across various destinations in and out of Vanuatu.
Location: Valesdir, Epi, Vanuatu
11. Vanua Lava Airport
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It is also known as the Sola Airport and is located on the island of Vanua Lava, one of the Bank Islands situated in the Torba province of Vanuatu. With an elevation of 7 feet above sea level, it has one runway which is 700 metres in length. Air Vanuatu flies to Luganville regularly carrying its passengers to their expected destinations.
Location: Island of Vanua Lava, Torba Province, Vanuatu
12. Whitegrass Airport
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A beautiful airport on the island of Tanna, in the Tafea province in Vanuatu is worth mentioning due to its unique name. Located at Whitegrass, which is 8 kilometres north of Lenakel township. It is at an elevation of 19 feet above sea level and has one runway. The airport supports aircraft that are small to mid-sized. A well-constructed road leads to the western side of the island and the Lowanatom settlement in the South. Air Vanuatu connects it to Port Vila and Anatom Airports.
Location: Island of Tanna, Tafea province in Vanuatu
13. Norsup Airport
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This airfield is situated near Norsup on the island of Malakula, in the Malampa province of Vanuatu. Air Vanuatu flies to and fro to Luganville and Port Vila. It is one of the three airfields, the other two being the Lamap Airport and the South West Bay in the South. It resides at an elevation of 23 feet above mean sea level with a runway of 950 meters.
Location: Near Norsup on the island of Malakula, Malampa Province, Vanuatu
14. Gaua Airport
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Located on the island of Gaua, one of the Bank Islands in Torba province of Vanuatu. It offers airline services to Luganville and Mota Lava. A less popular airport that consists of very little information online or offline. The Gaua area is prone to earthquakes and these natural calamities have taken a toll on the airport facilities available here.
Location: Island of Gaua, Torba province, Vanuatu
15. Redcliffe Airport
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Redcliffe Airport is one of three local airports on Ambae Island in Vanuatu. It ranks second in importance after Bauerfield International Airport. The airport features a 2,230-meter runway and sits at an elevation of 36 feet. Conveniently located on Ambae Island, Vanuatu, it may be small, but it plays a vital role in regional air travel, offering essential connectivity for residents and visitors alike.
Location: Island of Ambae, Vanuatu
Vanuatu is a welcoming destination that captivates travellers with its diverse experiences and stunning landscapes. This extraordinary island offers a well-connected travel network with airports in Vanuatu, making exploration seamless and enjoyable. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, visitors will find plenty to do. With TripXL’s trusted hospitality and customised travel packages, tourists can enjoy a hassle-free journey, ensuring a memorable and stress-free experience in this island paradise.
Cover Photo: Miguel Cuenca / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
