Air Vanuatu’s Sole ATR Remains Grounded

Air Vanuatu’s sole ATR remains grounded almost two weeks after going out of service because of engine issues. The seventy-passenger ATR72-600, YJ-AV73 (msn 1358), ceased flying on August 1, 2025, after operating a scheduled service from Luganville (SON) to Port Vila (VLI).

Air Vanuatu CEO Joseph Laloyer told the VBTC outlet that there was a technical issue with one of the ATR’s Pratt & Whitney 127M engines. He said there was a worldwide shortage of ATR engines, so sourcing a replacement could take time.

Meanwhile, Air Vanuatu is looking for short term wet-leased capacity to cover for the grounded ATR. Laloyer said the airline had approached Fiji Airways, Aircalin, Solomon Airlines, among others, looking for an aircraft.

YJ-AV73 is one of three aircraft operated by state-owned Air Vanuatu. The two other aircraft are smaller DHC-6-300 Twin Otters. Together, they provide an essential service connecting Vanuatu’s many islands. The two Twin Otters continue to operate and are currently covering some services normally serviced by the ATR.

ADS-B flight tracking data shows YJ-AV73 regularly flies the Luganville – Port Vila and Tanna (TAH) – Port Vila routes.

Aerlink, PNG Air, Air New Zealand, and Air Caledonie are among the other ATR operators in the region. However, Laloyer’s confirmation that Air Vanuatu has approached non-ATR operators indicates that the carrier is not focusing on wet-leasing an ATR only.

Photo: ATR