The Wings of Hope Flying Doctor plane, known locally in Banks as the Red Pigeon, has finally returned home to Torba Province after nearly three years of repairs following severe damage caused by Cyclones Judy and Kevin in 2023.

The aircraft landed at Gaua Airport last week to a warm welcome ceremony, with locals placing flower garlands on the plane in celebration of its return. The plane, which provides vital medical evacuation and health services to remote islands where Air Vanuatu flights cannot reach, is a lifeline for many communities in Torres and Banks.

Community Liaison Officer for Torres, Kino William, praised the Flying Doctor Service for its ongoing support:

“It’s been one or two years without any Air Vanuatu flights, but Dr. Mark still has the heart to help us in times of emergency.”

Dr. Mark Naomi Turnbull, who oversees the service, said it took almost two and a half years and a significant amount of money to complete the plane’s repairs in Australia.

Former Merelava Councillor Edmon Sovan also expressed gratitude, saying Flying Doctor is the only service that reaches their island during emergencies.

Shortly after its return, the aircraft completed its first medical flight to Motalava.

Dr. Turnbull thanked the Vanuatu Government, through the Ministry of Health, for assisting with customs and duty exemption clearances when the plane returned, and acknowledged the Laymen Ministries in the United States for financing the repair works.

The return of the Red Pigeon marks a new chapter of hope for people in Torba Province who rely on it for life-saving health services.