RAAF repatriation flights end as commercial services resume

The last two Royal Australian Air Force repatriation flights have returned 118 Australians from earthquake-affected Vanuatu, bringing the total evacuees to 686.

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) announced no further RAAF flights would occur due to the resumption of commercial services.

The DFAT-run Smartraveller website provided an update indicating a cessation of scheduled Australian Defence Force flights.

Crisis teams from Australia have arrived in Vanuatu, as local authorities work urgently to rescue individuals trapped under rubble.

Massive quake

Vanuatu’s international airport reopened on Sunday, following the deadly 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck the region almost a week prior.

Australian airlines have commenced flights to Port Vila, with 284 people using commercial flights to return to Australia on Sunday.

Qantas and Virgin were the first to resume operations, while Jetstar is set to restart flights on Monday.

DFAT’s travel advice cautioned Australians remaining in Vanuatu to follow local authorities’ guidance, as efforts continue to restore critical infrastructure in Port Vila.

Widespread damage to roads and buildings has been reported, posing significant challenges for recovery efforts.