Qantas Launches Inaugural Flight to Vanuatu

For the first time in its history, the Flying Kangaroo has taken off from Brisbane to Port Vila, the harborside capital of Vanuatu. The inaugural service, QF159, was at full capacity, with holidaymakers and business travellers making the nearly 3-hour journey to one of the Pacific’s hidden gems.

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

The new flights will help boost tourism between Australia and Vanuatu, strengthening economic ties and boosting the local economy and the broader Pacific region's tourism. These flights will also encourage more Australian visitors to the island capital.

Port Vila is one of the four new international routes from the Queensland capital the Flying Kangaroo offers. The inaugural service follows the previous launches of Brisbane to Wellington and Honiara in October 2023. Furthermore, Brisbane's upcoming launch to Manila in late October 2024 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 by introducing 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 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 welcome Qantas customers to our shores and share the beautiful experiences our 83 islands offer.”

A Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft will operate the new service on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. All Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, and seat selection. Qantas Frequent Flyers will earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on eligible flights.