Philippe Busson appointed new CEO of Air Vanuatu

By Andrew Curran.

The board of Air Vanuatu has appointed Philippe Busson as the airline’s new chief executive officer, according to a media statement from the Association of South Pacific Airlines (ASPA). Busson most recently served as chief strategy officer at Air Calédonie. He replaces Acting CEO Joseph Laloyer.

“We are very pleased to welcome Phil to Air Vanuatu at this important moment in the airline’s recovery,” said Air Vanuatu chairman Captain Robin Deamer.

Busson, who has three decades of aviation experience and reportedly beat 30 other applicants for the role, will have his work cut out for him at Air Vanuatu, which is still struggling to recover financially and operationally following its liquidation in 2024.

“His depth of regional and international aviation experience, his strategic and operational expertise, and his strong ties to the South Pacific make him exceptionally well suited to lead Air Vanuatu into its next chapter,” said Deamer.

Air Vanuatu operates four DHC-6-300 Twin Otters, two of which are currently out of service, and one ATR 72-600 serving 17 airports across the country. The airline is expecting delivery of its fifth Twin Otter shortly.

ASPA says Busson has held senior roles across aircraft and engine manufacturers, maintenance, repair and overhaul organisations, lessors and airlines. This includes five years as an aviation consultant at IDEAL Consulting, where he advised airlines on start-up projects, fleet management and organisational optimisation. He holds a Master’s degree in Engineering from INSA Lyon and sits on ASPA's board.

Busson is due to start at Air Vanuatu on August 1 and will focus on the airline’s strategic priorities of safety, reliability and financial sustainability.

“The Board looks forward to working closely with him as we continue to rebuild a safe, reliable and sustainable national carrier that serves the people of Vanuatu and connects our islands to the world,” added Deamer.

"We extend our sincere thanks to Joseph Laloyer, His dedication to this airline over so many years and his willingness to serve again and again when he was needed most reflects a rare and genuine commitment."

Meanwhile, the Government of Naoero has appointed Wendy Bowden as the new chief executive officer of Nauru Airlines. Bowden took up the role in May. Bowden was most recently the financial controller at Alliance Airlines but before that, was chief financial officer at Nauru Airlines.

Photo: Association of South Pacific Airlines.
Contact the writer: andrew@aerosouthpacific.com