Fiji Airways has officially resumed commercial passenger flights to Port Vila, Vanuatu. The inaugural flight, designated FJ2265, operated using a Boeing 737 Max8 and took off from Nadi at 11:59 AM, landing in Port Vila shortly after at 1:04 PM, coinciding with the airport’s reopening for commercial operations at 1:00 PM.
This flight was significant, carrying 98 passengers that included a relief team from the Fiji Government, returning nationals from Vanuatu, aid workers, and essential supplies to support the ongoing recovery efforts in the region. Additionally, a team from Fiji Airways was on board to service the aircraft and facilitate its preparations for the return trip.
FJ2265 marked a meaningful milestone as it was the first commercial flight to arrive in Port Vila after the airport’s closure. The return flight, FJ2264, also carried passengers back to Fiji, including those who were affected by the disruptions caused by the earthquake on December 17.
Fiji Airways is set to maintain its usual flight schedule for the remainder of the day, with operations planned to run from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and additional services expected to operate the following day.
This resumption of flights highlights the resilience and cooperation in the region, as both aid and tourism play crucial roles in helping Vanuatu recover and thrive after natural disasters. It reflects a hopeful step towards restoring normalcy and connectivity for the communities affected.
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