Air Vanuatu Restores 737 and ATR72 to Service, Eases Capacity Concerns

Air Vanuatu has successfully returned its sole B737-800 and ATR72-600 aircraft to service, alleviating capacity constraints at the South Pacific carrier. In September, the B737 was grounded due to an auxiliary power unit (APU) issue, while the ATR72 underwent maintenance involving propeller changes.

The B737-800, registered as YJ-AV8, resumed operations on September 30 after addressing the APU concerns. While additional mechanical work is scheduled for mid-October, it is not expected to disrupt flights.

Simultaneously, the carrier’s only ATR72-600, registered as YJ-AV73, returned to service ahead of schedule on October 5 after undergoing required upgrades involving propeller replacements.

These developments are crucial for Air Vanuatu, which operates a limited fleet comprising two DHC-6-300s and one leased from Solomons – Solomon Airlines. The carrier services 32 destinations across five countries, connecting domestic routes with international flights to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and New Caledonia.

Despite the recent challenges, Air Vanuatu aims to maintain operational stability and continues its commitment to serving the Pacific region effectively.