Air Vanuatu, the flag carrier of the Pacific Islands nation of Vanuatu, has entered liquidation following the cancellation of all its flights, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The airline cited “extended maintenance requirements” for its aircraft as the reason for the cancellations, affecting more than 20 flights to and from Australian cities Sydney and Brisbane, as well as New Zealand’s Auckland.
EY, an international consultancy firm appointed by the government to oversee the liquidation process, expressed hope of getting Air Vanuatu’s fleet of four aircraft back in operation as soon as possible. However, they were unable to provide a specific timeline for resuming normal operations.
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The airline, which operates flights within Vanuatu and to destinations in Australia, New Zealand, and other South Pacific islands, plays a crucial role in the country’s tourism-dependent economy. EY highlighted challenges faced by the global aviation industry, including labour shortages, rising operating costs, and disruptions from extreme weather, as factors contributing to Air Vanuatu’s liquidation.
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Despite these challenges, EY emphasised the strategic importance of Air Vanuatu as a national carrier and expressed optimism about its future. The first creditors’ meeting will be scheduled shortly, with the current management team remaining in place during the liquidation process.
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Australian carrier Qantas Airways announced its support for codeshare passengers booked on Air Vanuatu flights, while the Vanuatu Tourism Office is in discussions with Virgin Australia and Fiji Airways to assist stranded passengers in reaching their destinations.
SOURCE: NEWS AGENCIES
