Vanuatu’s national carrier Air Vanuatu is considering entering voluntary administration.
Air Vanuatu confirmed that the Vanuatu Government and firm Ernst and Young were reviewing available options for the airline.
About 20 international flights from Thursday through to Sunday have been cancelled citing “extended maintenance requirements”, including from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne airports. Flights after Sunday are currently under review.
“Ernst & Young representatives arrived in Port Vila today to begin an assessment of Air Vanuatu’s financials and are being assisted by the Vanuatu Government and the Air Vanuatu team,” an Air Vanuatu spokesperson said.
“While the assessment is ongoing, further commentary and updates will be provided by Air Vanuatu.”
Local media has reported that the company’s board was dissolved after the company faced bankruptcy.
The airline – which operates four planes, including one Boeing 737 and three turboprop planes – said it would update customers on its travel advisory page.
The Vanuatu Tourism Office posted an apology to customers impacted by cancelled flights.
“At this stage, we are unable to share further information but are in contact with Air Vanuatu and the Vanuatu government and will share updates as they become available,” a spokesperson said.
“We are conscious of the impact this situation has on travellers, ticket holders and the industry and on behalf of the Vanuatu tourism industry, extend our apologies to anyone affected.”
Australia’s national carrier Qantas does not operate flights into Vanuatu but has a codeshare agreement with the airline to link passengers to the nation. Qantas said it was supporting customers impacted by the cancellations to find alternative flights.
It also encouraged any customers with bookings on Air Vanuatu between now and the end of May to contact their flight provider for refunds.
Virgin Australia is the only other Australian airline to operate in Vanuatu with its scheduled flights continuing to go ahead.
Australia’s Smartraveller website published an update stating the airline and its codeshare partners have cancelled or rescheduled flights for the coming days, urging those affected to contact the airline, travel agent or their insurance company.
Sydney and Brisbane airports urged passengers on Air Vanuatu flights to not travel to the airport amid the cancellations.
Ernst and Young has been contacted for comment.
– with AAP
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