People in South West Bay, Malekula, are calling for Air Vanuatu services to return to Wintua Airport to reduce high transport costs, which now exceed VT30,000 per trip.

It has been over five months since Air Vanuatu last operated flights to the area.

Speaking to VBTC News in Wintua Village, Chairman of the South West Bay Sub-Area Council, Kalros Kainding, said it’s time for flights to resume.

“We need this service now. To travel, we have to go to Lambumbu , the boat costs around VT15,000, the truck VT5,000, and then take the Vanuatu Ferry to Vila or Santo. It’s very expensive.”

Mr. Kainding said the poor condition of roads makes it difficult for residents to access quick medical services in emergencies, forcing them to travel by sea.

“Maybe if it’s a normal sickness, doctors can manage, but for serious cases , especially in bad weather , it’s a big challenge.”

Meanwhile, MP for South Malekula, Alick Terry, said discussions are already taking place within the Council of Ministers to improve the road conditions.

“Government processes take time; it’s not easy. But I can assure you that we’ll reach Akam, and the Minister of Climate Change has assured that the road will be done.”

To help reduce costs for locals, the government recently brought ID card and birth certificate services to South West Bay.

Over the weekend, Minister Andrew Napuat, along with MP Alick Terry and area councillors, launched a new area council signboard and a new ID machine .

“We represent the DGs, Directors, and councillors from Malampa, and it’s an honour to unveil this name for the area council,” Minister Napuat said.

For now, the return of Air Vanuatu flights to South West Malekula remains uncertain, as locals continue to wait for an official update.