Vanua Balavu Airport (VBV)

Vanua Balavu Airport (IATA: VBV, ICAO: NFVB) is the primary air gateway to the island of Vanua Balavu, a remote and picturesque part of Fiji's Northern Lau Group. Serving as a vital link for both residents and the small number of tourists visiting the island, the airport provides essential connectivity to Viti Levu, Fiji's main island. Its role is purely functional, connecting one of the nation's most distant inhabited islands to the national transportation network. The airport is a simple, unsealed airstrip rather than a conventional airport, reflecting the rugged and undeveloped nature of the region.

Managed by Fiji Airports, this outer island airstrip was established to support the local community and encourage low-impact tourism. Its history is tied to the Fijian government's efforts to provide reliable access to remote islands that are otherwise only reachable by lengthy sea voyages. The airport is situated on the northern part of the island, a short distance from the main village of Lomaloma. Access to and from the airstrip is typically arranged in advance through local resorts or guest houses, as there are no formal taxi services, public transport, or rental car agencies available upon arrival. The journey from the airstrip to various accommodations often involves travel by 4x4 vehicles or small boats, offering visitors an immediate immersion into the island's natural environment.

Operations at Vanua Balavu Airport are exclusively domestic and limited to small propeller aircraft capable of landing on its short, unpaved runway. The sole scheduled carrier is Fiji Link, the domestic subsidiary of Fiji Airways, which operates infrequent flights from Nadi International Airport (NAN). These flights are often subject to weather conditions and passenger demand, operating on a less rigid schedule than typical domestic routes. Passenger volume is very low, consisting mainly of residents, government workers, and adventure travelers.

The facilities at Vanua Balavu Airport are extremely basic, in line with its status as a rural airstrip. There is no traditional terminal building. Instead, a small, simple shelter provides minimal protection from the elements for waiting passengers. There are no check-in counters, baggage carousels, retail shops, restaurants, or restroom facilities for the public. All check-in and luggage procedures are handled planeside by the airline staff in a direct and informal manner.

Travelers using Vanua Balavu Airport should plan accordingly. It is essential to have all transportation to and from the airport pre-arranged. Flights should be reconfirmed with the airline close to the travel date, as schedules can change with little notice. Visitors should also carry sufficient Fijian currency, as there are no ATMs or banking services at the airport or widely available on the island. Due to the minimal facilities, passengers should bring their own water and snacks and be prepared for potential delays.