Solomon Airlines will introduce a second direct service between Brisbane and Espiritu Santo (Santo) in Vanuatu from 5 April 2026, expanding its Pacific network and increasing non-stop capacity into Vanuatu’s northern gateway.
The new Saturday flight is timed to begin ahead of the Easter holiday period and will complement the carrier’s existing Thursday service. Flight time is expected to be around two hours 50 minutes.
Boost for Santo holidays and week-long packages
The additional weekly frequency is being positioned as a win for tourism on Espiritu Santo, supporting demand for seven-night itineraries and week-long holiday packages.
With more direct access from Australia, the route is expected to benefit local accommodation providers, tour operators, dive centres, restaurants and small businesses, while giving travellers easier access to Santo’s headline drawcards including blue holes, the Champagne Coast and cultural experiences such as Leweton Cultural Village.
Connectivity and freight links for northern Vanuatu
Solomon Airlines said the route expansion reflects closer collaboration with the Vanuatu Tourism Office, the Espiritu Santo Tourism Association and the Vanuatu Government to strengthen international connectivity. Beyond leisure travel, the service also supports air freight movement between Australia and Vanuatu’s northern provinces.
The airline noted Luganville is one of only two international airports in Vanuatu with full immigration facilities, positioning the Brisbane–Santo flight as an important option for dispersing arrivals beyond Port Vila.
Flight timing
The new Saturday service (IE726) is scheduled to depart Brisbane at 09:00 and arrive Santo-Pekoa International Airport at 12:50 local time. Return services will operate via Port Vila, offering onward connections for business and leisure travellers.
