Air Vanuatu (NF, Port Vila) has announced the resumption of a codeshare partnership with Qantas (QF, Sydney Kingsford Smith) on Port Vila flights starting June 15. A previous codeshare between the two carriers was suspended in January 2016 due to concerns from Qantas over the condition of the runway at Port Vila's Bauerfield airport.

This new agreement comes after confirmation that Port Vila airport will undergo upgrades, partly funded by a loan from the World Bank.

CEO of Air Vanuatu, Joseph Laloyer, praised Qantas for being an important partner and for having patience as technical issues were resolved.

"From codeshare agreements to maintenance contracts, marketing to ground services, their partnership is our most valued and respected," Laloyer said.

Air Vanuatu currently flies direct from Sydney to Port Vila 4x weekly using B737-800 aircraft. Additionally, it offers a service via Brisbane International 3x weekly.