Bauerfield International Airport (VLI)
Port Vila, VU 🇻🇺 Large International Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
NVVV
IATA
VLI
Elevation
70 ft
Region
VU-SEE
Local Time
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GPS Code: NVVV
Local Code: Not available
Location: -17.699301° N, 168.320007° E
Continent: Oceania
Type: Large International Airport
Keywords: Efate Field Vila Field McDonald Field Bauer Field
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Travelers generally view Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, Vanuatu, as a functional but basic airport that is in need of significant renovation. Overall sentiment is mixed, with an average rating of 6/10 on Skytrax and 6.9/10 on Flight-report, indicating reasonable satisfaction for a small island airport despite its shortcomings.
What Travelers Love
- Friendly Staff: Ni-Van staff are consistently described as courteous and helpful.
- Ease of Navigation: The airport is relatively small and easy to navigate, making for a less stressful experience for many travelers.
- Quick Processing (when not crowded): When there are no other flights, passport control, visa on arrival, and luggage collection can be very quick, sometimes as fast as 15 minutes from plane to taxi. Security checks are also generally quick.
- Harry Bauer Lounge: The business lounge offers air conditioning, Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a quiet haven, which is a significant improvement over the general public areas.
- Scenic Location: Travelers appreciate the beautiful mountains and greenery visible upon exiting flights.
- Efficient Airport Transfers: Private airport transfer services are highly rated for friendly drivers, good communication, and door-to-door service to hotels.
Common Complaints
- Lack of Air Conditioning: Most of the airport, including public waiting areas, is not air-conditioned, relying on fans, which can make it very hot. The domestic terminal is also not air-conditioned.
- Outdated and Basic Facilities: The airport is well overdue for renovation, with noticeable wear and tear both internally and on the roads outside. Skytrax certifies it as a 2-Star airport, noting basic facilities, poor seating, and washroom standards.
- Cleanliness and Maintenance Issues: Some reviews mention a lack of public toilet facilities, with many being broken.
- No Air Bridges: Passengers consistently walk across the tarmac to and from the aircraft.
- Crowding and Slow Processing (during peak times): When several flights depart or arrive simultaneously, the airport can become very crowded, leading to slower security, passport control, and check-in times. Check-in facilities can be slow if only one counter is open.
- Limited Amenities: Food and beverage options are poor and limited, and free Wi-Fi is generally unavailable in public areas.
- Airport Closure: The airport appears to close nightly, which could be an issue for travelers planning overnight stays.
Bauerfield International Airport serves as a functional gateway to Vanuatu, primarily benefiting from its helpful staff and quick processing during off-peak times. However, travelers should anticipate basic, dated facilities and a lack of modern comforts like air conditioning, especially during busy periods.
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Airport Routes
Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) offers 20 flight routes operated by 10 airlines. Major carriers include Air Vanuatu, Fiji Airways, Virgin Australia and others. Popular destinations from Port Vila include Brisbane, La Tontouta Int'l, Santo-Pekoa Int'l, Honiara Int'l and Malekoula Island.
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
- Nadi Int'l (NAN) new
- La Tontouta Int'l (NOU) new
- Sydney (SYD) new
- Auckland (AKL) new
- Santo-Pekoa Int'l (SON) new
- Longana (LOD) new
- White Grass (TAH) new
- Norsup (NUS) new
- Lonorore (LNE) new
- Brisbane (BNE) new
- Craig Cove (CCV) new
- Lamen Bay (LNB) new
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Bauerfield International AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Vanuatu
AVN
/ NF
|
9 | 395 | 9 | Feb 11, 2026 |
|
Fiji Airways
FJI
/ FJ
|
1 | 88 | 1 | Feb 11, 2026 |
Virgin Australia
VOZ
/ VA
|
1 | 77 | 1 | Feb 8, 2026 |
Jetstar
JST
/ JQ
|
1 | 48 | 1 | Feb 11, 2026 |
|
Solomon Airlines
SOL
/ IE
|
3 | 46 | 3 | Feb 11, 2026 |
|
Alliance Airlines
UTY
/ QQ
|
1 | 43 | 1 | Oct 24, 2025 |
|
Air Caledonie
TPC
/ TY
|
1 | 25 | 1 | Feb 11, 2026 |
Qantas
QFA
/ QF
|
1 | 19 | 1 | Feb 9, 2026 |
|
Air Niugini
ANG
/ PX
|
1 | 10 | 1 | Feb 7, 2026 |
|
Air Caledonie International
ACI
/ SB
|
1 | 5 | 1 | Feb 7, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
11/29 |
8530 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
11R/29L |
3310 ft | 105 ft | GRS | Active |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| AFIS | FLT SVC | 120.7 MHz |
| AFIS | FLT SVC | 1133.9 MHz |
| CTAF | CTAF | 120.7 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 120.7 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 1133.9 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Taxis are readily available directly outside the arrivals terminal. They are not metered, so it is crucial to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your trip. A typical fare to downtown Port Vila is around 1,500-2,000 VUV. Official taxis can be identified by a 'T' on their license plate.
Rental Cars
Several car rental companies have desks inside the arrivals hall, including international brands like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar, alongside local operators. It is highly recommended to book your vehicle in advance, especially during peak season. A valid driver's license from your home country is usually sufficient, but an International Driving Permit is advised.
Public Transportation
The main form of public transport in Vanuatu is the privately-owned minibus system. These vans, identifiable by a red 'B' on their license plate, operate on flexible routes and are a very affordable option. You can usually hail one from the main road just outside the airport entrance. Tell the driver your destination when you get in.