Domestic flights to Aore Island Vanuatu

March 6, 2026

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Domestic Flights Aore Island Vanuatu

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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Life in Vanuatu is slower, safer, and cleaner than many crowded tourist destinations. With fresh local food, a welcoming community, and direct links to Australia and New Zealand, the lifestyle here offers a balance of affordability and true island living.

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

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