Qantas Launches Daily Brisbane-Port Vila Flights, Delivering Thirty-Five Thousand Five Hundred Seats to Drive Vanuatu Tourism Growth

Qantas has unveiled an exciting expansion of its flight services, increasing its Brisbane-Port Vila route to a daily operation starting in March 2026. This move will significantly enhance the connectivity between Australia and Vanuatu, particularly as the island nation continues its recovery following the devastation of an earthquake in 2024. With the addition of more flights, the airline will double its capacity on the route, offering a total of 35,500 seats during the period from March until October 2026.

Significant Boost for Vanuatu’s Tourism

This decision by Qantas represents a substantial investment in the future of Vanuatu’s tourism industry. The increase in frequency and seating capacity will support the region’s efforts to rebuild and recover from the destruction caused by the 2024 earthquake. The extra services are set to meet the rising demand for leisure travel to Vanuatu, with a focus on families and couples seeking a nearby tropical getaway that offers good value. The response to the increased demand indicates the growing popularity of Vanuatu as a destination for Australian travelers.

The decision is also in line with broader trends in tourism recovery following the pandemic, with strong interest coming from Australians who are eager to experience the stunning natural beauty and authentic cultural experiences that Vanuatu offers. As one of the closest international tropical destinations from Brisbane, the island nation continues to attract visitors looking for an easy and exciting holiday option.

Expanding Vanuatu’s Global Accessibility

In addition to this significant increase in flight capacity, Qantas is deploying a combination of E190 and B737 aircraft for the daily service, further reinforcing the airline’s commitment to providing seamless and comfortable travel to and from Vanuatu. This new arrangement will make it easier for Australians to experience all that Vanuatu has to offer, from its vibrant culture to its remarkable natural landscapes.

The new daily flights will undoubtedly make the country more accessible to travelers, helping Vanuatu solidify its place as a go-to destination for those looking for an island getaway.

The boost in capacity arrives at a crucial time as Vanuatu strives to rebuild its tourism industry. It offers a window into the recovery of the region and sends a clear message of confidence in the country’s long-term prospects for tourism. As the nation continues to recover from the earthquake, tourism remains a key component of its economic revival.

The Role of Vanuatu’s Tourism Office

The Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) has expressed immense gratitude for Qantas’s continued support and its role in the recovery process. The CEO of the VTO, Adela Issachar Aru, spoke about the significance of the increased connectivity and its positive implications for the island’s tourism industry. The decision to increase flight capacity has been hailed as a powerful statement of confidence in Vanuatu’s recovery, and it aligns with the broader narrative of the country’s tourism revival.

The number of visitors to Vanuatu is now above pre-pandemic levels, with recent data indicating that visitor numbers have grown by 8% since the country began its post-pandemic recovery. This growth in tourism demand further strengthens the case for increased flight services and enhanced connectivity between Vanuatu and Australia.

Aru emphasized that the increase in flights would not only support tourism operators but would also offer Australian travelers a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the rebuilding efforts and the resilience of Vanuatu’s people. The enhanced flight schedule opens up new avenues for Australians to visit the islands and witness the country’s remarkable recovery journey.

Vanuatu’s Latest Tourism Campaign

The flight expansion is also a part of a broader strategy to reposition Vanuatu as a prime destination for adventure, culture, and nature-based travel. Earlier in 2025, the Vanuatu Tourism Office launched a new consumer campaign in Australia, aimed at showcasing the islands through a fresh lens. This campaign, called ‘Adventure Passes,’ positions Vanuatu as an ideal destination for those seeking an escape to nature, thrilling adventures, and authentic cultural experiences.

In addition to the new flights and tourism campaign, Vanuatu has also seen significant improvements in its infrastructure and visitor services. One notable development is the introduction of a “VIP Airport Priority Lane” at Port Vila’s Bauerfield International Airport. This exclusive service, previously reserved for diplomats and dignitaries, is designed to streamline arrivals and departures, providing a smoother and more efficient experience for travelers arriving at the island nation.

Cruise Ship Return Marks Milestone

Vanuatu’s recovery has also been marked by the return of international cruise ships. After an extended hiatus due to the earthquake and the pandemic, the island welcomed its first cruise ship, the Carnival Adventure, back in August 2025. This development is a clear sign that Vanuatu’s tourism infrastructure is gradually returning to normal, and the reopening of cruise ship routes adds another layer of appeal for international visitors.

What Lies Ahead for Vanuatu?

As the flight schedule transitions to daily service, the partnership between Qantas and Vanuatu’s tourism stakeholders is set to yield lasting benefits. The capacity increase not only promises more opportunities for Australians to experience the natural wonders of Vanuatu, but it also offers a major boost to the island’s economy.

The decision reflects broader optimism about the future of Vanuatu’s tourism industry and a growing recognition of the country’s unique appeal as a destination. The strategic move by Qantas to support the island’s tourism growth will play a significant role in driving Vanuatu’s continued recovery in the years to come.

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