News

18 October 2018

New Identification Requirements For Domestic Flights

 A high number of fraudulent identity practices have lead to Air Vanuatu introducing compulsory I.D. checks for all domesti­c flights next year. Effective 01 February 2019, Air Vanuatu passengers flying from Port Vila, Santo and Tanna will be required to present photo ID at check-in.

This new policy will eventually be enforced across the entire domestic network with the remaining ports requiring photo identification by 01 May 2019.

The airline said they had endured several cases of adults traveling on children’s fares which was a fraudulent act, and impacted on revenue.

Chief executive officer Derek Nice said the airline wanted to make the process as smooth as possible and would ensure the public was aware of the new requirements in time for the 01 February change of procedure.

“Air Vanuatu will accept several forms of photo identification including the Vanuatu National ID card which is available free from Civil Status. Other acceptable forms of photo I.D. include the VNPF card, driver’s licence, passport, student card and official company I.D. cards.”

Infants and children (up to 11 years) will also be required to show identification, the Civil Status Office can also issue these.

Mr. Nice said he was aware some people in the outer islands would need time to obtain photo I.D., hence the long lead in time for implementation.

“It is world wide standard in aviation for photo identification to be required for safety, security and revenue best practice. We hope this does not cause our passengers any inconvenience and do not expect it to with these measures not being introduced until next year,” he said.

Air Vanuatu will inform passengers of the changes through their sales offices and local media in the coming months.

Media inquiries:         Tiffany Carroll tel +678 7747153 or +61417512233