The Pacific’s aviation sector is witnessing important developments, with key airlines in Tonga, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea taking strides towards stabilising and enhancing air connectivity. Here is an update for our members and readers, referenced from news sources:
In Tonga, Chatham Airlines has commenced operations, stepping in to address ongoing disruptions in the kingdom’s domestic flight services. This move follows Lulutai Airlines’ lease of a Saab 340B from Air Chathams after extensive negotiations for a four-month wet lease agreement. The arrangement allows Chatham Airlines to provide the aircraft, aircrew, and maintenance under Lulutai’s Air Operating Certificate.
The return of Chatham Airlines to Tonga marks a significant development, as the airline last operated in the kingdom over a decade ago, before being forced out in 2011. Tonga’s aviation sector has faced persistent challenges, with a long-standing flight crisis exacerbated by recent service disruptions. The lease agreement with Lulutai, coupled with the potential acquisition of new aircraft, signals a renewed focus on stabilising Tonga’s domestic air services.
Vanuatu
Meanwhile, in Vanuatu, Air Vanuatu is preparing to restart its domestic flights, marking a significant step forward after the airline entered voluntary liquidation in May. Liquidators Ernst & Young (EY) Australia, with the support of the Vanuatu government and civil aviation authorities, have initiated pilot training flights as a precursor to the full resumption of services. EY’s Morgan Kelly emphasised the critical importance of these flights for the approximately 300,000 residents living across Vanuatu’s 60 islands.
Despite the challenges, including maintenance issues with its Boeing 737-800, Air Vanuatu remains committed to restoring operations and ensuring reliable air service for the nation. The resumption of domestic flights is seen as a vital step in the airline’s recovery process, with ongoing negotiations aimed at securing a new operational structure and potentially new ownership.
Papua New Guinea
Completing this round of aviation updates, Air Niugini has announced the resumption of its Boeing 737 flights to Port Vila, Vanuatu, starting on 3rd August. This development restores a crucial air link between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, which had been suspended since 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline’s Acting CEO, Gary Seddon, highlighted that the reintroduction of this service is expected to significantly bolster business, cultural, and governmental connections between the Melanesian nations.
The weekly service will depart Port Moresby every Saturday at 9:45 AM, routing through Honiara, Solomon Islands, before arriving in Port Vila. The return flight is scheduled for Sunday mornings, following the same route. Air Niugini’s commitment to the Melanesian region is further demonstrated by its ongoing services to Fiji and the Solomon Islands, cementing its role as a key player in the Pacific aviation landscape.
