PORT VILA, VANUATU: The Vanuatu Tourism Office has announced the expansion of Solomon Airlines international route network with the introduction of a new direct flight service connecting Brisbane, Australia (BNE), to Luganville, Santo, Vanuatu (SON).
The first flight arrived on Saturday 4 th April 2026, 12.45pm.
This significant development enhances connectivity between Australia and Vanuatu’s second-largest island, offering travellers a more convenient gateway to the stunning natural beauty and adventure experiences, and rich cultural heritage of Espiritu Santo.
The new direct service is a testament of Solomon Airline’s commitment to supporting tourism and economic growth within Vanuatu and the Pacific region.
Jason Rakau, the CEO of Airports Vanuatu Limited expresses, “We are grateful for Solomon Airlines’ ongoing support as an aviation partner, as the extra routing they are bringing into the destination adds significant value for our air visitors for both tourists and citizens alike.”
Enhanced Connectivity and Travel Convenience
The new route will operate twice weekly beginning on 4 th April 2026. This direct connection is expected to dramatically reduce travel time for Australian tourists and expatriates heading to Santo, bypassing the need for connections through Port Vila.
“We are incredibly excited to bring this direct service to fruition”, said Matthew Findlay, CEO of the Solomon Airlines.
“Santo is a jewel of the South Pacific, famed for its world-class dive sites like the SS President Coolidge and its untouched beaches.
“By offering a direct route from Brisbane, we are making this paradise more accessible than ever before, supporting local tourism operators and fostering stronger regional trade links.”
Supporting Vanuatu’s Tourism Sector
The launch of the Brisbane-Santo direct flight is a major milestone for Vanuatu’s tourism recovery and growth, specifically for Espiritu Santo and its surrounding islands.
Rayman Leung, Chairman of the Espiritu Santo Tourism Association, expressed, “This initiative is focused on giving travellers greater flexibility and choice when planning their trip to Espiritu Santo.
“With more options on travel dates, it has never been easier to book and organise a holiday to our island. Known for its vibrant blue holes, pristine coastline , and rich history, Espiritu Santo is now more accessible than ever for adventurers, divers, and holidaymakers seeking an authentic Ni-Vanuatu experience. We are ready to welcome everyone.”
In addition, Mrs Adela Issachar Aru, CEO of the Vanuatu Tourism Office states, “We anticipate a strong positive impact on local businesses in Luganville and surrounding areas, through this connectivity which is a two-way street: bringing in people and also allowing us to send the very best of Vanuatu – our flavours, our craftsmanship, and our produce, out to the world.
“This is how we build a trade economy that supports our local families and sustains our rural communities which is why Vanuatu Made is a critical element of this pathway of our connectivity also.”
Mrs Aru further added; “We look forward to receiving more Australian visitors who can now enjoy the convenience of landing directly on Santo’s shores and boosting the local economy.”
– Vanuatu Tourism Office Corporate ·
Photos by Tamara Photografi
