Australia has provided aviation ground-support equipment valued at VUV127 million (approximately US$1.08 million) to Vanuatu, strengthening airport operations, aviation safety and emergency response capabilities at three of the country’s main airports.
The equipment, delivered under the Australia-Pacific Partnerships for Aviation programme, includes a new air starter unit for Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila and three combined ground power and air-conditioning units for Bauerfield, Whitegrass Airport on Espiritu Santo and Pekoa Airport.
The investment is intended to improve the reliability and efficiency of ground operations, reduce aircraft delays and maintenance downtime, and allow aircraft to be serviced without relying on onboard systems.
The equipment will also help reduce fuel consumption, an important consideration for Pacific airlines facing high aviation fuel costs and the operational challenges of serving geographically dispersed destinations.
Australia’s support extends beyond the supply of equipment. Technical personnel from Airports Vanuatu Limited and Vanuatu Terminal Services have received training to operate and maintain the new systems, strengthening local technical capacity.
Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu Max Willis said the equipment was part of a broader Australian programme supporting improvements in aviation safety, quality and reliability.
“Together, these initiatives help strengthen connectivity, support economic growth and ensure airports can continue serving communities during times of crisis,” Mr Willis said.
The importance of reliable airport infrastructure was demonstrated following the December 2024 earthquake, when aviation facilities played a crucial role in moving emergency personnel, medical supplies and humanitarian assistance.
Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat thanked Australia for the assistance, describing strong airports as a lifeline for the country.
He said Vanuatu needed continued improvements in infrastructure, equipment, safety standards, regulatory systems and the capabilities of people responsible for operating and maintaining aviation facilities.
The investment also has wider economic implications. Aviation connectivity is essential to Vanuatu’s tourism industry, business travel, inter-island transport and access to international markets.
Improved ground-handling capabilities can support more reliable airline operations and reduce operational disruptions, benefiting airlines, tourism operators, freight services and passengers.
The latest assistance reflects Australia’s continuing partnership with Vanuatu in developing infrastructure and institutional capacity that can support economic activity during normal operations while maintaining essential connectivity during emergencies and natural disasters.
Main Photo by Philip Metois courtesy of Vanuatu Tourism Office/ Vanuatu Daily Post
