Wednesday, 18 December 2024
Vanuatu Tourism Office has expressed its heartfelt condolences to those affected by the earthquake that struck Vanuatu shortly after midday on Tuesday. Our thoughts are with those individuals and families who have lost loved ones, suffered injuries or otherwise been affected by this tragic event.
The earthquake that struck on Tuesday at 12:47pm 31km west off the coast of Port Vila on Efate Island has caused significant damage in the town of Port Vila but that many tourism operations are still operating.
There is a recovery operation underway in the town area and while some accommodations have had to close due to damage, others are fully operational. Vanuatu is comprised of 83 islands and the main tourism islands of Espiritu Santo and Tanna are unaffected. Port Vila’s Bauerfield International Airport is undergoing assessment, and the Vanuatu Tourism Office has seen reports that minor runway repairs will allow the resumption of commercial flights. Relief and medivac aircraft are using the runway currently.
Vanuatu Tourism Office’s spokesperson has said tourism operators are currently focussed on supporting those guests in Port Vila.
The main telecommunications network is currently not operational and only those with Starlink access have communications. Authorities are also working to restore power and water supplies.
Port Vila Airport is closed to commercial flights until further notice.
For information on airline activity, please visit:
As at 4pm(AEST) on the 18 th of December:
- Bauerfield International Airport is closed for 72 hours to allow for relief and
medivac flights to operate uninterrupted - Each of the airlines have online information to assist passengers
Qantas - www.qantas.com/au/en/travel-info/travel-updates.html
Jetstar - www.jetstar.com/au/en/travel-alerts#Flights%20to/from%20Port%20Vila%20(Vanuatu)
Virgin - www.virginaustralia.com/au
AirCalin & Air Caledonie - www.aircalin.com.au/en/breaking-news
Air Vanuatu have advised that domestic services have been suspended until further notice. Guests are asked not to go to the airport as it is closed. The contact centre is currently closed.
The Ni-Vanuatu community are focused on supporting each other and their families and many are undertaking clean-up operations. As a nation Vanuatu is resilient and the tourism office is aware of many acts of kindness and the community coming together to support each other.
VTO will provide further updates as soon as we can confirm official information to share.