Lamap Airport (LPM)

Lamap Airport (IATA: LPM, ICAO: NVSL) is a vital regional airstrip serving the community of Lamap and the southeastern part of Malekula Island in Vanuatu's Malampa Province. As a key transportation link, it plays an essential role in connecting local residents and the developing tourism sector to the nation's primary hubs. The airport facilitates the movement of people, cargo, and essential supplies, underpinning the local economy and providing access to services not available on the island.

The airstrip is one of many outer-island airfields established to enhance connectivity across the archipelago. Its history is tied to the post-independence development of Vanuatu's domestic aviation network, designed to overcome the challenges of inter-island sea travel. Its primary significance remains its function as a lifeline for the remote communities of Malekula. The airport is situated just outside the village of Lamap. Travelers typically reach the airstrip via pre-arranged transfers from their accommodation or by hiring a local truck or taxi, which are the common forms of transport in the area. The journey from the village is short, but road conditions can be basic.

Operations at Lamap Airport are exclusively domestic. Air Vanuatu, the national carrier, is the principal airline serving the airport, operating scheduled flights with small turboprop aircraft like the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. These flights connect Lamap primarily with Port Vila's Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) and sometimes with other regional airstrips. Flight schedules can be infrequent and are subject to change based on weather conditions and operational requirements, reflecting the nature of outer-island aviation.

Traveler facilities at Lamap are minimal, consistent with a small, rural airstrip. The infrastructure consists of a short, unpaved (grass or coral) runway and a simple, small building that functions as a terminal. This structure provides basic shelter and a check-in area, but there are no shops, restaurants, lounges, or ATM services. Restroom facilities are rudimentary. For travelers, it is crucial to confirm flights 24 to 48 hours prior to departure. Arriving around 60 minutes before the scheduled flight is generally sufficient for the straightforward check-in process. All ground transportation should be arranged in advance, as options upon arrival are limited and often not immediately available. Visitors should also ensure they carry enough local currency (Vanuatu Vatu), as there are no currency exchange or banking facilities at the airport.