๐ป๐บ Redcliffe, Vanuatu
Redcliffe Airport operates as one of three local airports on Ambae Island in Vanuatu's Penama Province, featuring a 2,230-foot runway at 36 feet elevation. Located in Loone at coordinates 15ยฐ28'16"S, 167ยฐ50'4"E, this small airport serves as a secondary facility to Vanuatu's main international airport at Bauerfield.
The terminal building provides basic passenger processing facilities including passport control and customs clearance services for both domestic and international flights. As a small island airport, facilities are functional but limited, focusing on essential services required for inter-island connectivity within Vanuatu's archipelago.
Operational services concentrate on domestic flights connecting Ambae Island to other islands within Vanuatu, supporting local transportation needs and emergency services. The airport handles smaller aircraft suitable for the runway length and serves the local communities on Ambae Island.
The airport's regional significance lies in maintaining vital air links for Ambae Island residents, facilitating access to government services, healthcare, and economic opportunities on other islands. Transportation to and from the airport is typically arranged through local taxi services, contributing to the island's connectivity within the Vanuatu transportation network.
Redcliffe Airport (RCL) is a small regional airport located on Ambae Island in Vanuatu's Penama Province, serving as one of three airstrips on this volcanic island in the South Pacific. The facility operates with basic infrastructure suitable for smaller aircraft and inter-island connections within Vanuatu. There are no commercial amenities such as duty-free shops, restaurants, or extensive passenger lounges due to the airport's small scale and island location.
Ground transportation from the airport typically involves pre-arranged local taxi services or transportation coordinated through local accommodations, as public transport options are limited on Ambae Island. The airport serves primarily domestic routes connecting to other islands in Vanuatu, with Port Vila (VLI) being the main hub for international connections.
The tropical climate of Vanuatu can affect flight operations, particularly during the wet season from November to April when tropical cyclones and heavy rainfall may cause delays or cancellations. Always confirm flight schedules with local carriers as services may be subject to weather conditions and operational requirements.
For visitors to Ambae Island, the airport provides essential connectivity to explore this active volcanic island known for its crater lakes and unique geological features. Most travelers use this airport as part of island-hopping itineraries within Vanuatu, often connecting through the main international gateway at Bauerfield Airport in Port Vila.
โข Check schedules in advance as services may be limited.
โข Check your flight status before leaving for the airport.
โข Allow extra time during peak travel periods at this airport.
โข Keep important documents easily accessible at this airport.
โข Download your airline's mobile app for updates at this airport.
Minimum domestic connection:
45 minutes
International connections:
90 minutes
Interline transfers:
120 minutes
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Last updated: April 2026 | Data Source: IATA and other airline sites and resources