Southwest Bay Airport (SWJ)

Traveler sentiment regarding Southwest Bay Airport (NVSX (SWJ)) on Malekula Island is currently dominated by concerns over its operational status. As of October 2025, Air Vanuatu services to Wintua Airport (Southwest Bay Airport) have been suspended for over five months, leading to significant challenges and high costs for locals and potential travelers. The general traveler experience to Malekula's small airports, when operational, has historically been characterized by very basic facilities and an authentic, remote island atmosphere.

What Travelers (and Locals) Need/Hope For:

• Resumption of Air Vanuatu flights: There is a strong call from the local community for Air Vanuatu to resume services to Southwest Bay Airport (SWJ), as the suspension has severely impacted accessibility.
• Reduced travel costs: Current alternative transportation methods, involving boats and trucks to other parts of Malekula or other islands, are reported to be very expensive, exceeding VT30,000 per trip.
• Improved access to essential services: The lack of air service makes it difficult for residents to access crucial services, particularly medical care in emergencies, often forcing them to travel by sea.

Common Challenges (based on current SWJ status and general Malekula airport experiences):

• Limited or suspended air service: The most significant current complaint is the complete suspension of Air Vanuatu flights to Southwest Bay Airport (SWJ) since early 2025.
• High alternative transport costs: Traveling to and from the Southwest Bay area now involves expensive and time-consuming journeys by boat and truck to other airports or main hubs.
• Basic infrastructure: While specific recent reviews for SWJ are unavailable due to its operational pause, other airports on Malekula (like Norsup) are described as having minimal facilities, typically featuring a gravel runway and very simple check-in processes in small cabins. Travelers can expect manual baggage handling and direct boarding to small aircraft.
• "Island time" delays: Flights within Vanuatu can be subject to delays and operate on "island time," which travelers should factor into their plans.
• Poor road conditions: The condition of roads on Malekula is often challenging, making onward travel from any operational airport difficult and impacting access to villages.

The current situation at Southwest Bay Airport (SWJ) is one of anticipation for the return of regular air services, which are vital for both the local population and potential tourists. When operational, travelers should expect a very rustic and authentic island airport experience, characteristic of Vanuatu's remote outer islands.