Lamap Airport - Your Point of Arrival Into the Heart of Vanuatu
Introduction
Lamap Airport (IATA: LPM, ICAO: NVSL) is a small airport in the Malampa province of Vanuatu. Being the only airport on Malekula Island, this is an essential lifeline for both residents and visitors to access other parts of Vanuatu. Whether you are touring its lush landscapes, indulging in rich cultural heritage, or relaxing on a tropical getaway, Lamap Airport is your door to the marvels of Vanuatu.
Airlines and Destinations
Flights are domestic only between here and within Vanuatu, returning by land from the plane to Buckaroo Lagoon is a possible adventure for those who like waterways. There are only two scheduled airlines that operate into this airport from Lamap: Air Vanuatu or the domestic operator, making both Port Vila (VLI) and Norsup Airport (NUS). These are critical air transportation routes, which serve both the local community and visitors.
Passenger Volume and Flight Frequency
Lamap, as a regional airport, has some few passengers and flights travelling through it. Yet, its value to the local community cannot be underestimated. The whole airport has 4 monthly flights to the former That getaway for Lamap but only through home-based airlines.
How to Get Here
Access to Lamap Airport is straightforward - it sits just outside the town of Lamap. There are plenty of ways to reach the airport by road, and visitors can easily avail of taxis and rental car services along with local shuttle shuttles.
Parking
Lamap Airport provides a small parking space for those passing through in private cars. Parking facilities are located within a short distance from the terminal, and parking is free of charge for passengers.
Transportation Prices
The cost of going to Lamap airport and returning will depend on how you are traveling, but also on which municipality you live in. There are taxis and rental cars, usually charging between 500 to 2,000 Vt (approx USD$4-17) for a one-way taxi transfer contract.
Terminal Layout
There are driver desks, money changers for US Dollars and Indonesian Riftah or ATMs (no public information on them) that accept Visa at Lamap here, the rest is for registered passengers only. The terminal contains a check-in region, walk-up ticket windows, and a baggage carousel.
Navigate the Airport
It is only small, but Lamap's Airport is manageable. There is wayfinding all over the place, and there are only 3 places you need to navigate through anyway (check-in counters, security checkpoint, boarding gates), so routing was easy!
Getting Between Terminals
Lamap Airport is equipped with only one terminal, so all the travelers do not wander around here and there into different terminals. So in every little nugget of land, you have departures and arrivals.
Services and Amenities
Although not nearly as fancy as the standard international fare in larger hubs, Lamap Airport serves all of the necessities of a departing or arriving passenger. Basic services including restrooms, a limited waiting area, and some food and drink options will be available to passengers.
Restaurants and Shops
There are not many dining or shopping opportunities available at Lamap Airport; there is merely a small café/snack bar before and after passing through security. Public officials suggest travelers prepare ahead and bring their own food, beverages, or supplies.
Security and Customs
Lamap Airport - Security Lamap airport is local, so the security screening process here is very simple. Passengers will be required to clear an airport-style security screening checkpoint where carry-on bags and personal items are X-rayed. Since all flights are within Vanuatu, there is no customs to go through.
Accessibility
Facilities and services for special needs passengers at Lamap Airport Passengers with mobility difficulties are catered for by specially designed Terminal building and facilities, backed up if necessary by trained Airport staff.
Travel Tips
At Lamap Airport, the check-in and security processes are fast, but as it is a tiny airport, this can be delayed if there are many other passengers at once. Also, remember to pack light and wear loose clothing as the weather in Vanuatu is typically that of a tropical nature.