Mota Lava Airport

Your Gateway to the Banks Islands: Mota Lava Airport

Introduction

Located in the heart of the South Pacific, Mota Lava Airport (IATA: MTV; ICAO: NVSA) is an airport suited for those looking to travel to and from the Banks Islands. Dubbed Valua Airport, this tiny yet crucial port links the far-flung Mota Lava Island with other parts of the world, making domestic and international travel possible.

Airlines and Destinations

Today, the only flights from Mota Lava Airport are local (DOM) and fly everywhere in Vanuatu. The airport serves as a hub for Air Vanuatu and features flights from local charter companies. What are the most popular routes from Mota Lava Airport?

Population of Travelers, Flights

In its capacity as a small local airport, Mota Lava sees little passenger traffic and virtually no flight operations. The airport has two primary destinations, to which it handles an average of about 2 flights per month. Mota Lava Airport sees probably a few thousand people in total pass through the airport during each year.

How to Get Here

Getting to Mota Lava Airport is an adventure itself, as the island is quite remote. Step 1: By far the easiest way to get there is by hopping on a domestic flight from one of Vanuatu's main airports (such as Port Vila's Bauerfield International Airport). Otherwise, guests can book a private boat transfer or charter flight to the island.

Parking

Since Mota Lava Airport is so small, there is plenty of room for both short-term parking and long-term options. There is no additional charge or fees for the vehicles parked in the designated parking area near the terminal building.

Transportation Price

Depending on the mode of transportation, you may or may not incur additional costs getting to and from Mota Lava Airport. One-way domestic flights from major airports in Vanuatu usually cost between $100-300. So, while a bit pricier than island hopping and even still preferred charter flights, they certainly allow for less mainland content on holidays.

Terminal Layout

The airport itself is accommodated within a single terminal building of small size, equipped with the basic passenger processing and airline operations facilities. The terminal features a tiny check-in area, waiting lounge, and some basic amenities such as restrooms and a simple refreshment stall.

Navigate the Airport

Although the Mota Lava Airport is small, it has a convenient layout for passengers. With well-labeled signs and the correct signage, passengers do not have to do much other than just follow them to walk from the check-in counter all the way through the boarding gates. The airport staff are also there to help travelers with any doubts or queries they have.

Getting Between Terminals

Since Mota Lava Airport is an airport with 1 terminal, passengers will not have to worry about getting lost or confused into different terminals and can enjoy a smooth journey. With a compact facility, all arrivals and departures take place under the same roof.

Services and Amenities

Mota Lava Airport is a relatively simple airport and may lack the widespread range of services you find in larger international airports; however, travelers should be able to locate basics such as restrooms. This consists of restrooms, a small concession area, and seating accommodations for around 50 people. Therefore, passengers need to be prepared and have what they require for their journey with them.

Restaurants and Shops

There are absolutely no places to eat or shop at Mota Lava Airport. The food outlet is limited in its selection of snacks and drinks, with small meals served at this terminal's only refreshment stand. There are no stand-alone retail shops or duty-free outlets within this airport.

Security and Customs

Being a domestic aerodrome, the security and customs procedures are quite nominal at Mota Lava Airport. Travelers will still need to go through the normal screening and document checks at their gates. The airport staff are trained with meticulous handling of these processes and keeping the entire procedure devoid of any hassle.

Accessibility

Mota Lava Airport is dedicated to making the services and facilities within our terminals accessible for all travelers, including those with disabilities or special needs. The employment of the Building Regulations that apply to terminal buildings and all their ancillary equipment incorporates design attributes intended specifically for travelers with mobility challenges, while airport staff typically receive specialized training on methods used in assisting those needing extra support.

Travel Tips

• Book air tickets well in advance as the number of flights are limited and get filled up easily, especially during peak travel seasons.
• However, you will want to pack light since storage room inside the terminal is limited.
• Arrive early, with plenty of time to spare; check-in and boarding can be a little slower than in bigger airports.
• Plan for possible weather delays or cancellations, as the remote location of Mota Lava makes it vulnerable to changes.
• Become familiar with Mota Lava by understanding the airport's layout and available services.