Solomon Airlines Launches Direct Christchurch-Vanuatu Flights This Winter
Key Points
- 1Solomon Airlines will launch twice-weekly Christchurch-Port Vila flights starting 1 July 2026.
- 2The new route is the first regular scheduled service connecting New Zealand's South Island directly to Vanuatu.
- 3The airline is also adding a fourth weekly flight on the Auckland-Port Vila route from 3 July 2026.
- 4The expansion is part of a post-pandemic growth strategy following the liquidation of competitor Air Vanuatu.
Solomon Airlines is set to launch the first-ever regular commercial service connecting Christchurch to Port Vila, Vanuatu, starting this winter.
The new direct Christchurch to Port Vila (CHC-VLI) flights will begin on 1 July 2026. This development marks a significant boost for New Zealand Pacific connectivity. South Island travelers can now access the Melanesian archipelago directly. The route offers a warm weather escape during the New Zealand winter.
Key Route Details and Aircraft
Solomon Airlines will operate the Solomon Airlines Christchurch Vanuatu route twice weekly. Flights will depart Christchurch on Thursday and Sunday mornings. The return service from Port Vila will operate on Wednesday and Saturday.
The airline will use its narrowbody Airbus A320-200 aircraft for the four-hour journey. This Airbus A320-200 service provides a convenient link. It connects the South Island's largest city to Vanuatu's capital. The service is a welcome addition for Christchurch Airport passengers.
Wider Network Expansion
The Christchurch service is part of a major international network expansion for Solomon Airlines. The airline is significantly increasing its regional footprint.
- Auckland Expansion: The carrier is adding a fourth weekly direct flight between Auckland (AKL) and Port Vila (VLI). This Auckland expansion Solomon Airlines service begins on 3 July 2026.
- New Pacific Air Routes: Solomon Airlines is also introducing a new weekly flight from Honiara to Port Moresby. This route is timed to allow connections with China Southern and other Asian carriers. The airline is also re-establishing a weekly Honiara-Port Vila service.
- Brisbane Service: A second weekly flight from Brisbane to Luganville, Santo, is also being added.
Industry Impact and Market Strategy
This aggressive expansion strategy is designed to meet growing regional demand. It also addresses a gap in the market. The expansion follows the voluntary liquidation of Air Vanuatu in May 2024. Solomon Airlines is positioning itself as a key carrier in the South Pacific.
The South Island direct flights are expected to boost tourism. New Zealand residents made over 13,200 flights to Vanuatu in 2024. This figure is growing post-pandemic. The new service offers a direct, non-stop option. This eliminates the need for connecting flights via Auckland or Australia. The carrier is focusing on creating new Pacific air routes for business and leisure travel.
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Ujjwal SukhwaniAviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
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