Lamen Bay Airport (LNB)

Lamen Bay Airport (IATA: LNB, ICAO: NVSM) is a vital domestic airstrip located on the northwestern coast of Epi Island in the Shefa Province of Vanuatu. It serves as the primary air link for the island's residents and a crucial entry point for tourism, connecting the relatively remote community to Port Vila and other islands within the archipelago. The airport's role is essential for transporting people, delivering supplies, and facilitating access to higher-level services, including medical care, located in the nation's capital. While detailed records of its origin are sparse, the airstrip has served as a foundational piece of infrastructure for Epi for several decades, supporting its modest but important tourism sector, known for opportunities to swim with local dugongs.

The airport is situated adjacent to the village of Lamen Bay, making it easily accessible on foot for those staying in the immediate area. For travelers heading to other parts of Epi Island, ground transportation typically consists of 4x4 trucks that function as local taxis. It is highly advisable to pre-arrange these transfers through accommodations, as vehicles are not always waiting on standby. Operations at Lamen Bay are exclusively domestic, with no international flights. The primary carrier is the national airline, Air Vanuatu, which operates scheduled services using small turboprop aircraft such as the de Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter. These flights connect Epi with Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, the main hub for all air travel in Vanuatu. Passenger volume is low, consisting of a mix of local residents and a small number of international visitors.

Facilities at Lamen Bay Airport are very basic, reflecting its nature as a rural airstrip. The infrastructure consists of a short, unpaved runway and a small, often open-air shelter that serves as the terminal. This building provides cover from the elements and a simple area for check-in and waiting. There are no lounges, shops, restaurants, or currency exchange services at the airport. Basic restroom facilities may be available but are not guaranteed. Travelers should plan accordingly and bring any necessary water, snacks, and local currency (Vanuatu Vatu) with them. When traveling from Lamen Bay, it is recommended to confirm flight times beforehand, as schedules can change due to weather or operational factors. Arriving 45 to 60 minutes prior to departure is generally sufficient. For connecting flights in Port Vila, travelers should allow a generous buffer of several hours between their domestic arrival and any international departure.