Vanuatu’s national airline, Air Vanuatu, has been pushed into voluntary liquidation as it grapples with mounting financial challenges.
The move comes after days of uncertainty and operational challenges, leading to the cancellation of approximately 20 international flights from Thursday to Sunday.
These cancellations, affecting routes from Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne airports, have left passengers stranded.
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On Thursday, Air Vanuatu disclosed that the Vanuatu government, along with consulting firm Ernst and Young, was exploring available options for the airline.
EY partner in strategy and transactions Morgan Kelly said: “Air Vanuatu is critical to the people of the Republic of Vanuatu and a strategically important business to the nation.”
“Our team is working closely with management to ensure continuity of service to customers and to ensure services continue as seamlessly as possible.
“The outlook for the airline is positive, despite pressures on the broader industry, and we will be focused on securing the future of this strategically vital national carrier.”
Sydney and Brisbane airports also issued advisories urging passengers not to travel to the airports if booked on Air Vanuatu flights.
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