Santo Pekoa International Airport (SON)

Common Complaints

• Lack of Air Conditioning & Working Fans: A significant complaint is the absence of air conditioning, except in the customs area, and not all fans were working at check-in, leading to a hot environment.
• Limited Facilities and Cleanliness: The terminal facilities receive low ratings, with mentions of a small cafe with insufficient seating and general cleanliness issues.
• Slow and Manual Check-in Processes: Check-in can be slow, with some instances of hand-written boarding passes.
• Selective Service at Check-in: Some travelers have reported frustrating experiences with check-in attendants allegedly refusing service to tourists while serving locals, citing broken scales that then magically work for others.
• Mandatory Departure Tax: There is a 200 VUV departure tax that must be paid at a kiosk near check-in, and travelers complain that this is not clearly communicated.
• Slow Immigration and Customs on Departure: While arrival is often efficient, the departure process for immigration and customs can be slow due to a limited number of officers.

Overall, Santo Pekoa International Airport provides a basic, functional experience for travelers. While it handles arrivals and security relatively efficiently, the lack of modern amenities, occasional issues with check-in, and the uncommunicated departure tax are common frustrations. Travelers should arrive with appropriate expectations for a smaller, older airport and allow ample time for departure procedures.