Qantas, has received the green light from the International Air Services Commission (IASC) to launch its own flights to Vanuatu. This exciting development comes as the IASC awards Qantas 1,798 seats of capacity per week between Australia and Vanuatu.
A New Chapter in Air Travel
Qantas plans to service this route with its 737-800s, wet-leased Alliance E190s, and Jetstar’s A321neos, putting it in direct competition with Virgin Australia. A Qantas spokesperson expressed enthusiasm, stating, “We welcome the determination and will provide further details on our flight schedule as soon as possible.”
The IASC’s decision, noted by chair Genevieve Butler and commissioner Jane McKeown, outlines Qantas’ plans to operate up to three 174-seat 737 services per week between Brisbane and Port Vila starting 10 September. This frequency will increase to five over the end-of-year peak and up to daily services from the northern summer of 2025 using 97-seat E190s.
Expanding Horizons
In addition, the group plans to operate 232-seat Jetstar A321neo services up to four times per week from Sydney to Port Vila, beginning 12 December. This makes Jetstar the only airline operating services between Sydney and Vanuatu, with Virgin planning to boost flights from Brisbane instead.
The IASC acknowledged that Qantas and its wholly-owned subsidiary are established international carriers operating scheduled international services between Australia and several international destinations. On 11 June 2024, the IASC received confirmation from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts that Qantas has been designated as an Australian international airline under the Australia – Vanuatu Air Services Agreement and holds an International Airline Licence issued by the Department.
A New Opportunity Arises
Qantas’ move to the Vanuatu route follows the collapse of flag carrier Air Vanuatu. According to its liquidators, Ernst and Young, Air Vanuatu went into voluntary liquidation last month owing at least $99 million. Air Vanuatu previously codeshared with Qantas on several flights to Port Vila and Santo.
Ernst & Young indicated this week that non-binding offers are on the table for Air Vanuatu, which is undergoing restructuring to return it to the skies.
With this new venture, Qantas continues demonstrating its commitment to providing exceptional service and connectivity, opening up new travel opportunities and experiences for its passengers.
