Jetstar Launches Direct Flights to Vanuatu, Enhancing Tourism and Connectivity
Jetstar’s inaugural flight to Vanuatu landed at Port Vila International Airport at 1:50 PM local time, marking a major milestone for the Pacific island nation. The airline now offers the only direct service between Sydney, Australia, and Vanuatu, operating up to four flights a week with its new Airbus A321neo LRs. This new route is expected to bring an additional 40,000 passengers to Vanuatu annually, providing a significant boost to its expanding tourism industry.
Support from Government and Industry
Caretaker Minister Hon. Samson Samsen welcomed Jetstar’s entry into the Vanuatu market, emphasizing its significance: “Jetstar’s arrival provides another important route for visitors. Vanuatu’s recent recognition as one of the top 10 countries to visit in 2025 by Lonely Planet is expected to increase visitor interest, and Jetstar will help meet that growing demand.”
The Vanuatu Government, along with tourism and industry stakeholders, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership, viewing it as a key driver for increasing visitor numbers. Direct flights from Sydney, Australia’s largest city, are seen as a vital step in making travel to Vanuatu more accessible and affordable. Jetstar’s budget-friendly fares, starting at just $199 one-way, also offer more affordable travel options for Ni-Vanuatu residents wishing to visit Australia.
Boosting Vanuatu’s Tourism Appeal
Jenn Armor, Jetstar’s Executive Manager for Customer, highlighted Vanuatu’s allure: “Vanuatu’s stunning landscapes, vibrant island culture, and outdoor adventures make it a must-visit destination. With our direct flights from Sydney, getting to this Pacific paradise has never been easier or more affordable.”
This new service strengthens Vanuatu’s connectivity with major Australian cities and international destinations. While flights originate in Sydney, they also offer convenient connections from Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide, and international hubs in Europe and Asia.
Industry Reactions and Future Prospects
Adela Issachar Aru, CEO of the Vanuatu Tourism Office, celebrated Jetstar’s arrival: “We’re excited that the Qantas Group sees Vanuatu as a prime destination in the South Pacific. Australia remains our largest visitor source, and this new route will allow even more travelers to discover Vanuatu. We also look forward to expanding domestic connections to make the entire country more accessible.”
Jetstar now joins an impressive list of airlines serving Vanuatu, including Solomon Airlines, Fiji Airways, Virgin Airlines, Air Niugini, Qantas, Air Calédonie, and Air Calin. The Qantas Group now offers complementary services, with Qantas flying to Vanuatu via Brisbane and Jetstar providing an alternative via Sydney.
Strengthening Vanuatu’s Tourism Sector
This new direct flight represents a significant boost to Vanuatu’s tourism industry, which will benefit from increased visitor numbers, enhanced international connectivity, and more affordable travel options. With Jetstar’s entry, the collaboration between the airline, the Vanuatu Government, and tourism stakeholders is set to elevate the nation’s profile as a leading destination in the South Pacific.
With just over a three-hour flight from Sydney to Port Vila, Vanuatu is now more accessible than ever, solidifying its position as a top travel destination.