27 Jan 2016

Aircalin encouraged to maintain Vanuatu flights

2:05 pm on 27 January 2016

New Caledonia's pro-independence FLNKS movement says it would like that air links with Vanuatu be maintained.

Air strip at Bauerfield Airport in Port Vila

Air strip at Bauerfield Airport in Port Vila Photo: RNZI / Johnny Blades

This follows last week's decision by Air New Zealand and Qantas to suspend flights to Port Vila amid concern over a lack of safety with the runway.

In a statement, the FLNKS says it wants the territory's international airline, Aircalin, to show discernment and keep the flights.

Other regional carriers, including Virgin Australia, have kept flying to Port Vila's airport whose runway needs repairs.

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