Lonorore Airport (LNE)

Lonorore Airport (LNE) serves as the primary aviation gateway to Pentecost Island in Vanuatu's Penama Province. Its fundamental role is to connect the island's remote communities to the national hubs of Port Vila and Luganville, providing a vital link for residents, cargo, and tourism. The airport is particularly significant for visitors traveling to witness the traditional Naghol land diving ceremony, for which Pentecost is globally renowned. Located on the central west coast of the island, Lonorore Airport is situated near several small villages. Access to and from the airstrip is typically via unsealed roads, with local 4WD trucks and taxis being the standard form of transport to nearby bungalows and guesthouses.

Originally a basic grass and coral airstrip, the airport underwent a major transformation with the completion of a sealed, all-weather asphalt runway in 2015. This upgrade significantly improved the reliability and safety of air services, which were previously susceptible to disruptions from heavy rain. Operations at Lonorore are exclusively domestic, with Air Vanuatu being the principal carrier offering scheduled flights. These routes are serviced by small turboprop aircraft, such as the DHC-6 Twin Otter, which are well-suited for the short runway. Passenger traffic is modest for most of the year but sees a substantial increase between April and June, coinciding with the land diving season.

The facilities at Lonorore Airport are minimal, reflecting its function as a regional airstrip. The terminal is a simple, open-air shelter that provides cover from the sun and rain, functioning as a combined check-in, waiting, and arrivals area. There are no passenger lounges, retail shops, or food and beverage vendors within the airport structure itself. Baggage handling is entirely manual, with bags being loaded and unloaded directly from the aircraft onto carts or the tarmac for collection. Basic restroom facilities may be available, but travelers should not expect modern amenities like Wi-Fi or currency exchange services.

For those traveling through Lonorore, practical planning is essential. It is highly recommended to pre-arrange ground transportation with your accommodation provider, as taxis may not be readily available upon arrival. Passengers should plan to arrive at least one hour before their scheduled departure to accommodate the manual check-in process. Given that flights in Vanuatu can be subject to weather-related delays or schedule changes, it is prudent to build significant buffer time into your itinerary, especially when connecting to international flights. Travelers should also carry sufficient local currency (Vatu) for transport and other expenses, as there are no ATMs at the airport. Bringing your own water and snacks is also advisable.