Fiji Airways has resumed its commercial passenger flights to Port Vila, Vanuatu. The first flight, designated FJ2265, took off from Nadi at 11:59 AM and successfully landed in Port Vila at 1:04 PM, just after the airport reopened to commercial operations at 1:00 PM.
On board the Boeing 737 Max8, there were 98 passengers, which included members of a Fiji Government relief team, returning Vanuatu nationals, aid workers, and goods meant for assistance. Additionally, a ground crew from Fiji Airways was included to service the aircraft and prepare for its return flight.
FJ2265 marked a significant moment as it was the first commercial flight to arrive at the reopened airport. The return flight, FJ2264, also held the title of the first commercial departure, carrying returning Fiji citizens and other travelers affected by the airport’s closure following the earthquake that struck Vanuatu on December 17.
Fiji Airways plans to continue its normal flight schedule with services FJ263/262 resuming later in the day, fitting within the operating hours of 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. More flights are set to take place tomorrow, further facilitating travel and aid efforts in the region.
This marks a hopeful return to normalcy for Vanuatu’s tourism and transportation sector, aiding both the local community and those in need of assistance following recent challenges. With the reopening of the airport and the resumption of flights, there is renewed optimism for recovery and support in Vanuatu.
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