There have been no ticket cancellations from travel agents in Australia, New Zealand, or other countries following the theft that occurred in Port Vila earlier this week.

Chief Executive Officer of the Vanuatu Tourism Office, Adela Aru, told VBTC News that there have been no flight cancellations involving tourists.

“We received confirmation as of yesterday morning that there has been no official feedback from any travel agent or airline expressing concern about the theft that occurred,” Mrs Aru said.

“Our team is monitoring any reports by international media about the theft, but at this time we have not received any reports of flight cancellations by visitors intending to holiday here.”

Mrs Aru said Australia represents 62 percent of the market share and remains the largest source of visitors.

“In the last nine months of 2025, we found that the Australian market has recovered by 27 percent, which means it has brought total visitor arrivals to over 6,000 visitors into the country,” Mrs Aru said.

“When we compare this to 2019, the pre-COVID period, we see that the Australian market has recovered strongly and remains one of our strongest markets.

“There is strong demand in the Australian market, with international flights currently operating by Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia.”

“There are daily flights coming into the country and they are able to bring in more visitors.”

Mrs Aru said the international airport needs to improve its security services quickly because it handles a high number of visitors and local travelers every day.

With the high number of visitors from Australia alone, the Tourism Office wants to see security improved at the main international airport.

“We have received feedback from Port Vila tourism accommodation providers and resorts that are able to continue enjoying tourism activities.

“We also have Luganville in Santo, which currently has a flight once a week by Solomon Airlines, and we expect a second flight to begin in January 2026.”

With the high number of visitors from Australia alone, the Tourism Office wants to see security improved at the main international airport.

“This is an important point where we need to strengthen security. While we currently have airport security services, the theft still occurred, which shows there is a need for improvement,” Mrs Aru said.

“How security responds quickly when there is a theft like this is something that must be improved. We must ensure that this does not happen again at an international airport.”

The Vanuatu Tourism Office expects more tourists to arrive next year, in 2026.