Qantas Takes Off on First Flight to Vanuatu

Qantas

The Flying Kangaroo has taken off from Brisbane to Port Vila, the harbourside capital of Vanuatu, for the first time in its history.

The inaugural service, QF159, was at full capacity today with holidaymakers and business travellers making the near 3-hour journey to one of the Pacific's hidden gems.

The new route offers three direct flights per week from the Sunshine State, and from 12 December 2024* Jetstar will also offer up to four weekly flights between Sydney and Port Vila. Across both airlines this will create more than 150,000 new seats each year between Australia and Vanuatu and making it easier than ever for Australians to experience the beaches, rich culture, and unique adventures that Vanuatu has to
offer.

The new flights will promote tourism between Australia and Vanuatu, strengthening economic ties and providing a boost to the local economy and tourism economy of the broader Pacific region, encouraging ongoing Australian visitation to the island capital.

Qantas

Port Vila is one of the Flying Kangaroo's four new international routes from the Queensland capital that it has launched within 12 months. Today's inaugural service follows the launch of Brisbane to Wellington and Honiara in October 2023 and the upcoming launch of Brisbane to Manila in late-October 2024, which will add more than 100,000 seats between Australia and the Philippines each year.

Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace says: “We are thrilled to expand our network with the introduction of direct flights between Brisbane and Port Vila. This new route will maintain connectivity between Australia and the South Pacific, opening new opportunities for leisure and business travel to the region.”

“With its lush landscapes and crystal blue waters, Vanuatu is a truly remarkable destination and we are proud to offer our customers more ways to experience its natural beauty."

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan Graaff says: “This new Qantas route to Port Vila reinforces Brisbane Airport's role as Australia's Pacific hub.”

“The service offers Queenslanders an easy escape to paradise on our doorstep. It also provides the growing number of people from Vanuatu now living in Queensland, particularly those working in the agricultural sector, with direct access to home and family.”

Vanuatu Tourism Office CEO Adela Issachar Aru says: “The launch of Qantas' inaugural flight from Brisbane to Port Vila marks a significant milestone for Vanuatu's tourism industry and strengthens our connectivity with Australia.”

“Vanuatu offers an unforgettable escape, where travellers can immerse themselves in stunning landscapes, rich kastom, and adventure. We can't wait to welkam Qantas customers to our shores and share the beautiful experiences our 83 islands have to offer.”

The new service will be operated by a Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. All Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, and seat selection. Qantas Frequent Flyers will also earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on eligible flights.

Fast Facts

• Route: Brisbane (BNE) to Port Vila (VLI)
• Return fares: Starting from $796 in economy and $3,506 in business class
• Flight numbers: QF159 Brisbane to Port Vila, QF160 Port Vila to Brisbane.
• Frequency: Three times weekly (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Aircraft: Boeing 737-800, 12 business class and 162 economy seats

Qantas history of flying to Vanuatu

• Operated Empire Flying Boats as charters between Noumea and Port Vila in WW2 carrying troops
and freight including 1-tonne of gold bullion.
• In the 1960s when Qantas owned Fiji Airways, regular services were operated between Nandi and
Port Vila.