Plans to upgrade the Bauerfield International Airport terminal have been delayed, with the project remaining in the design stage as the Government considers expanding its scope beyond the initial renovation plans.

The project, which Airports Vanuatu Limited had identified as a priority for this year, is now expected to include additional infrastructure and facilities, although it remains unclear when construction will begin.

Earlier this year, Airports Vanuatu Limited Chief Executive Officer Jason Rakau told VBTC News that improving and reorganising the existing terminal was an active project aimed at improving passenger comfort and the overall travel experience.

“It is an active project that we are working on, and throughout this year we will be looking at renovating and rearranging our current terminal, while also focusing on improving the passenger experience for people arriving and departing.”

However, VBTC News has since received information from reliable sources indicating that there have been delays and changes to the project’s original scope.

The Government is now looking at expanding the project to include more infrastructure rather than focusing only on renovating the existing terminal.

The proposed development could include improvements from the terminal through to the car park, with additional space and more facilities also being considered.

Project Still in Design Stage

The project is being managed through the Public Works Department’s Project Management Unit and was initially estimated at around VT18 million.

However, with the scope of the project now expected to expand, the overall cost could increase.

The Bauerfield upgrade comes as passenger numbers and demand for improved airport facilities continue to grow.

During a recent Virgin Australia flight observed by VBTC News, the aircraft was fully booked, with the majority of passengers believed to be tourists.

Mr Rakau, whose term as AVL Chief Executive Officer is due to end in September, has also highlighted the need for a long-term plan for Vanuatu’s airport infrastructure.

He has called for a 20-year development plan that would provide a clear direction and standard for future airport development.

For comparison, major international airports such as Brisbane Airport in Australia handle hundreds of flights each day, including domestic and international services.

Port Vila currently handles around eight international flights a day, including four arrivals and four departures, while domestic flight numbers vary.

Meanwhile, airport infrastructure development is also planned for other parts of the country.

Plans are in place to improve the runway at Pekoa Airport in Santo, while terminal and runway works are also expected to proceed at Whitegrass Airport in Tanna.