Domestic Flights Aore Island Vanuatu
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by Justine Murray - Beachfront on Aore Airbnb
To reach Aore Island, travellers typically fly domestically within Vanuatu to Espiritu Santo (Luganville) and then transfer by boat. Most visitors first arrive in Port Vila (Bauerfield International Airport) and take a short domestic flight to Santo–Pekoa Airport, which takes around 45–55 minutes. These flights operate several times per week, with roughly 10–12 services weekly, depending on season and airline schedules. Once you land in Santo, Aore Island is only a 10–15 minute boat taxi across the channel from the Luganville wharf, making the final leg of the journey quick and scenic.
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Domestic flights in Vanuatu should always be booked in advance, as they are not a turn-up-and-fly service and seats can fill quickly, particularly during holidays or when flights are reduced due to weather or aircraft availability.
When travelling from Port Vila to Santo, arrive at Bauerfield Airport early with your passport or ID and printed or digital booking confirmation, and travel light if possible as baggage limits 10kg can be strict.
Airports in both Port Vila and Santo are small, relaxed, and easy to navigate, but services are basic compared to large international airports, so it is wise to bring water, snacks, and any essentials you may need during the day.
Flights may occasionally run later than scheduled due to weather or operational changes, which is normal for island travel, so a flexible mindset helps.
Once you arrive at
Santo Airport, you simply collect your bags, take a short taxi ride to the
Luganville wharf, and then a quick
boat taxi across the channel to Aore Island.
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Port Vila ⇄ Santo (Air Vanuatu schedule shown)
Monday:
- 07:30 Vila → Santo (arr 08:20)
- 09:00 Santo → Vila (arr 09:50)
- 14:00 Vila → Santo (arr 14:50)
- 15:30 Santo → Vila (arr 16:20)
Tuesday:
- 14:00 Vila → Santo (arr 14:50)
- 15:30 Santo → Vila (arr 16:20)
Wednesday:
- 07:30 Vila → Santo (arr 08:20)
- 09:00 Santo → Vila (arr 09:50)
- 14:00 Vila → Santo (arr 14:50)
- 15:30 Santo → Vila (arr 16:20)
Thursday:
- No Vila ⇄ Santo flights
Friday:
- 07:30 Vila → Santo (arr 08:20)
- 09:00 Santo → Vila (arr 09:50)
- 14:00 Vila → Santo (arr 14:50)
- 15:30 Santo → Vila (arr 16:20)
Saturday:
- 07:30 Vila → Santo (arr 08:20)
- 09:00 Santo → Vila (arr 09:50)
- 14:00 Vila → Santo (arr 14:50)
- 15:30 Santo → Vila (arr 16:20)
Sunday:
- 14:00 Vila → Santo (arr 14:50)
- 15:30 Santo → Vila (arr 16:20)
Flight times are provided for guidance only; schedules are set by the airline and may change without notice.
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If you would like assistance booking your domestic flights, please email us with your
- Full names of passnegers
- preferred travel dates,
- number of passengers,
- where you will be staying,
- and any luggage requirements,
and we will help guide you on the available flight options to Santo and onward to Aore Island.
Domestic flights in Vanuatu have limited seating and can fill quickly, so we strongly recommend providing at least two weeks’ notice when planning your travel.
We are always happy to help guests navigate the booking process. However, if you experience any difficulties with your flights, we suggest reaching out to your accommodation first, as they are often best placed to assist with local travel arrangements.
If further assistance is needed, we are of course happy to step in and help where we can.
Flight schedules are set by the airline and remain
subject to availability and change.
Frequently Asked Questions – Domestic flights to Santo
How do I book domestic flights to Santo?
How do I book domestic flights to Santo?
Domestic flights should be booked in advance as seats are limited. Guests can book directly with the airline online or contact their accommodation for guidance on the best flight options.
How far in advance should I book?
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance, particularly during busy travel periods when flights can fill quickly.
Can you help arrange our flights?
Can you help arrange our flights?
Yes. If you would like assistance coordinating your domestic flights or transfers, feel free to email us with your travel dates, number of passengers, luggage details, and where you will be staying.
What happens when I arrive in Santo?
What happens when I arrive in Santo?
After landing at Santo–Pekoa Airport, take a short taxi ride (10–15 minutes) to the Luganville Wharf. From there a boat taxi (10–15 minutes) will take you across the channel to Aore Island.
Do flight times ever change?
Do flight times ever change?
Yes. Domestic flights in Vanuatu are operated by the airline and times can occasionally change due to weather or operational factors, so it is always best to confirm your booking before travel.
What should I bring to the airport?
What should I bring to the airport?
Bring your passport or ID, booking confirmation, and travel light where possible, as baggage limits can be stricter on smaller domestic aircraft.
Can my accommodation help if I have difficulties booking?
Can my accommodation help if I have difficulties booking?
Yes. If you experience any difficulties booking flights, it is often best to contact your accommodation first, as they are familiar with local travel arrangements and may be able to assist. Otherwise if you get no answer from them reach out and we can assist.
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