Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy

The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy outlines clear, route-specific provisions for both cabin and checked luggage, enabling passengers to plan their travel without unexpected fees. Whether you’re flying domestically within Vanuatu or catching an international flight to destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, or New Caledonia, understanding the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy ensures a smooth start to your journey. This policy outlines weight limits, size restrictions, prohibited items, and excess baggage charges, allowing travelers to make informed packing decisions before arriving at the airport.

Air Vanuatu Cabin Baggage Allowance

The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy specifies carry-on allowances based on travel routes and fare class. For domestic flights within Vanuatu, passengers in Economy Class are allowed to bring a cabin bag weighing up to 5 kg. Business Class is not offered on domestic sectors, so no upgraded hand baggage applies for these routes.

To comply with the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy, all cabin items must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front. Oversized or overweight cabin bags may be transferred to the aircraft hold and treated as checked baggage.

Furthermore, passengers should be mindful of prohibited items in cabin luggage. Sharp tools, blunt sporting gear (e.g., bats or clubs), and any object that could be classified as a weapon are strictly banned from carry-on bags. Items such as hypodermic needles for medical use must be declared at security screening, ideally with documentation confirming the medical need.

Air Vanuatu Checked Baggage Policy

According to the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy, domestic passengers are entitled to a standard checked baggage allowance of 10 kg for both adults and children. Infants do not receive a separate allowance, and their essentials must be packed within the guardian’s baggage limit.

Once luggage is checked in, Air Vanuatu assumes custody and issues a baggage identification tag for each piece. However, due to aircraft capacity limitations or operational factors, the airline may transport baggage on a different flight from the passenger. The airline aims to reunite such baggage with the passenger as quickly as possible, though delays can occur.

Air Vanuatu Policy For Excess Baggage Guidelines

If your checked baggage exceeds the complimentary allowance, the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy allows additional bags to be accepted at a fixed rate per piece. The exact charge depends on your route and ticket type, and payment is typically required at check-in.

That said, the airline retains discretion in accepting excess baggage. Weight limits and aircraft type may influence whether additional luggage is permitted on the same flight. Operational factors like aircraft balance, weather, or cargo volume may require your excess baggage to be routed separately, sometimes arriving later than you do.

It’s important to note that waivers granted for excess baggage on one leg of your journey do not extend to future flights. Connecting flights may have different limits and charges. As such, reviewing the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy ahead of time for each segment of your itinerary helps avoid surprises at the airport.

Prohibited Items in Cabin and Checked Baggage As Per Air Vanuatu’s Policy 

In accordance with the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy, there are strict regulations on items that may pose a risk to safety or security. These items are prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage under international aviation rules.

Passengers are not permitted to carry the following in their cabin bags:

• Weapons or items resembling weapons
• Sharp tools (e.g., knives, scissors, screwdrivers)
• Restraining devices
• Sporting gear that could be used as a blunt object (e.g., bats or clubs)

Any such items discovered during screening must be surrendered or re-packed appropriately. In the case of hypodermic needles, passengers must declare them at security and ideally present supporting medical documentation. This helps ensure a smooth screening process while complying with the airline’s safety protocols.

Here is a list of items that you cannot take in your checked baggage. 

• Perishable, valuable, and fragile items
• Laptops
• Items that cost much and come with a special value, such as jewelry, money, silverware, and precious metals 
• Cameras
• Personal electric equipment
• Passport and other important travel documents 
• E-cigarettes 
• Certain items are deemed unsuitable for carriage because of their size, shape, fragile nature, or even safety issues. 

These are the items that aren’t allowed in checked or carry-on baggage on any Air Vanuatu flight:

• Flammable liquids or solids
• Explosives or fireworks
• Corrosive materials such as acids or wet batteries
• Compressed or toxic gases
• Poisonous or infectious substances
• Radioactive materials
• Oxygen generators or butane lighters
• Magnetized materials
• Flammable or non-flammable gases, such as camping gas
• Security cases with built-in alarms or explosive devices

These items are classified under dangerous goods as defined by IATA and ICAO and cannot be transported under any circumstances.

Exceptions for Small Quantities

Some everyday personal care products are allowed in limited amounts.

• Perfumes, hairsprays, and alcohol-based medicines may be carried in the cabin or checked luggage.
• Each item must not exceed 0.5 litres or 0.5 kilograms, and all must be securely packaged.

Rules for Firearms and Ammunition

Firearms and ammunition may be transported under very specific conditions and only with prior approval from Air Vanuatu.

• Must be declared at check-in.
• Firearms and ammunition may be carried together in checked baggage but must be separated within the same case or packed in separate ones.
• Documentation and compliance with legal requirements are mandatory.

Security and Sharp Objects

Certain sharp or potentially harmful objects are banned from carry-on bags and must be stored in checked luggage.

Items that must be packed in checked baggage:

• All types of knives or blades
• Cutting tools or sharp implements
• Sporting goods (e.g. bats, hockey sticks)
• Knitting needles and scissors

Any sharp or weapon-like items found during security screening will be confiscated and not returned.

Hypodermic Needles and Medication

Passengers who need to carry syringes or injectable medication must follow specific procedures.

• Declare hypodermic needles at the security checkpoint.
• Present medical documentation or a doctor’s letter, if available.
• Medication must carry a manufacturer or pharmacy label for identification.

Pre-Flight Inspection and Safety

Air Vanuatu reserves the right to inspect all baggage before accepting it for transport. If a bag contains restricted items or dangerous goods without approval, the airline can deny carriage.

• If you’re uncertain whether an item is safe for flight, consult Air Vanuatu or visit the Dangerous Goods Tool for clarification.

The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy is designed to meet international aviation safety standards. Knowing what can and cannot be packed ensures a smoother travel experience and keeps all passengers safe during the flight.

Tips and Special Considerations Regarding Air Vanuatu’s Baggage Policy 

To make the most of the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy, passengers should keep the following in mind:

• Label all bags clearly with your name and contact details.
• Weigh your baggage at home to avoid surprises at check-in.
• Avoid last-minute packing to prevent including restricted items.
• Keep medications and valuables in carry-on luggage for easy access and safety.
• If you’re traveling with infants, pack essentials like baby food and diapers in your cabin bag, since no checked allowance is granted for infants on domestic routes.

For passengers connecting to other airlines, it’s crucial to check the baggage policies of partner carriers, as their rules and fees may differ.

Air Vanuatu’s Baggage Policy for Infants and Children

When traveling with infants or young children, it’s important to understand the additional allowances and considerations provided. The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy ensures families are supported throughout their journey with generous allowances, safety procedures, and onboard assistance.

Baggage Allowance:

Air Vanuatu offers tailored baggage allowances for infants and children, along with free carriage of essential baby items.

• Children (2–11 years) receive the same baggage allowance as adults.
• Infants (under 2 years) are allowed 10 kg of checked baggage.
• One foldable stroller, pushchair, or infant car seat is accepted free of charge.
• Families must check with airport staff at check-in to apply the waiver.
• The number of strollers allowed onboard is based on the number of infants/children flying.

At the Airport & Onboard:

From stroller handling to lap-seating rules, Air Vanuatu provides dedicated assistance for families at every stage of travel.

• Strollers are collected at the gate and returned during disembarkation.
• Infants must travel on an adult’s lap, unless a separate seat is purchased.
• Bassinets are not available onboard Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
• Staff may provide a spare seat for added comfort, if space allows.
• Children’s booster seats are not permitted for use onboard.

Seating & Fares:

Booking details for infants and children include fare discounts and safety regulations related to seating.

• Infants are charged 10% of the adult fare and do not receive a separate seat.
• Each infant must be accompanied by one adult.
• A valid passport is required for all infants and children on international flights.

Special Considerations Regarding Air Vanuatu’s Baggage Policy 

The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy includes clear restrictions and procedures regarding the transport of sensitive or exceptional items. These guidelines help ensure compliance with local and international laws, as well as the airline’s operational capabilities.

Carriage of Animals

Passengers looking to travel with pets should note that Air Vanuatu enforces strict rules on animal transport.

• Animals are not allowed in the cabin under normal circumstances.
• Pets such as dogs or cats must be transported as cargo, not as carry-on or checked baggage.
• It is the passenger’s responsibility to ensure that all animals are:
  • Properly crated for safe transportation
  • Accompanied by valid health certificates and vaccination records
  • Issued with necessary import/export permits for all countries of transit or destination
• If these conditions are not met, Air Vanuatu will refuse to accept the animal for carriage.
• The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy clearly states the airline is not liable for any injury, sickness, loss, or death of animals during transport, or if an animal is denied entry at a destination.
• Certain breeds are not permitted on Air Vanuatu; these include Presa Canario, Japanese Tosa, Fila Brasileiro, etc. 

Transport of Human Remains and Ashes On An Air Vanuatu Flight 

Air Vanuatu recognizes the sensitive nature of transporting human remains, but there are important restrictions in place.

• The airline does not permit the carriage of human remains or cremated ashes on domestic flights.
• For any such transportation needs, alternative arrangements must be made via appropriate carriers or cargo services that specialize in these transfers.

Wheelchair and Mobility Assistance

Passengers with reduced mobility can request assistance before departure. Air Vanuatu provides tailored services to accommodate varying degrees of mobility challenges.

• Request in advance through your Air Vanuatu Sales Consultant or Travel Agent.
• Personal wheelchairs or mobility aids like crutches or canes are not permitted inside the aircraft cabin.
• Airline staff will assist with boarding and deplaning, including transfer between your wheelchair and seat.

Levels of Wheelchair Assistance (SSR codes):

• SSR WCHR – Passenger can walk short distances and to their seat, but needs help navigating the airport.
• SSR WCHS – The passenger can walk to the seat but cannot use the stairs.
• SSR WCHC – Passenger is fully dependent on a wheelchair and requires assistance to and from the seat using onboard equipment.

Medical Devices and Clearance

Passengers flying for medical treatment or with health conditions may need to provide medical documentation.

• Medical clearance forms are required if traveling due to a medical condition.
• A Harmless Discharge Form may be necessary for passengers flying after surgery, injury, or illness.
• These forms help the airline ensure in-flight safety and comfort.

Mobility Aids (Canes, Frames & Crutches)

Mobility aids are welcome onboard if they meet safety requirements.

• Canes and crutches can be used at the gate and brought into the cabin if stowable.
• Collapsible walking frames may be accepted onboard if they fit in cabin storage.
• Non-collapsible frames must be surrendered at the gate and stored in the aircraft hold.
• Airline staff will provide a wheelchair from check-in to boarding, if needed.

If you are unsure whether your item qualifies as dangerous, it’s best to contact Air Vanuatu before your travel date for clarification.

Special Items: Musical Instruments and Oversized Cabin Baggage

Certain valuable or fragile items—such as musical instruments—require careful handling. The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy guides passengers who wish to carry such items onboard or in the hold, with strict rules for safety and space considerations.

Musical Instruments and Delicate Items in the Cabin

Passengers carrying sensitive items like guitars or violins must meet strict requirements for in-cabin storage.

• Musical instruments are only allowed in the cabin if they fit safely into the overhead bins.
• Cabin baggage must meet size and weight limits as outlined by the airline.
• Baggage cannot be placed on passenger seats, even if extra seats are purchased, due to emergency safety risks.
• If the item is too large for the cabin, it must be checked in as baggage and will travel at the passenger’s own risk. However, fragile musical instruments will not go in as checked baggage.

Oversized Cabin Baggage Handling

Occasionally, cabin baggage that doesn’t meet boarding standards may still be accepted for carriage.

• Air Vanuatu reserves the right to reject cabin baggage that doesn’t meet the size or safety requirements.
• If rejected, such items may be redirected to the cargo hold as checked baggage, but additional charges may apply.
• Items considered unsafe or improperly packed will be refused altogether.

Passengers are encouraged to check the Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy on the official website or contact customer service in advance when traveling with fragile, valuable, or irregularly sized items. Proper preparation helps avoid last-minute complications at check-in or boarding.

Also Read: Finnair Baggage Policy

Air Vanuatu’s Rule for Lost, Damaged, or Delayed Baggage

Air Vanuatu strives to handle all passenger baggage with care, but occasional issues may arise. The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy outlines clear procedures for reporting and resolving baggage loss, damage, or delay, particularly for domestic travel.

Reporting Damaged or Lost Baggage

If you notice your checked baggage is missing or damaged, it’s essential to report the issue promptly.

• If you receive your baggage without complaint, it is generally assumed to be delivered in acceptable condition.
• Minor wear and tear, such as scratches, scuffs, or dents, and damage caused from overpacking, alongside items packed in an unsuitable way is not eligible for compensation.
• For domestic flights, you must report:
  • Damage, loss, or destruction: Within 3 days of receiving the baggage
  • Delay: Within 3 days of the baggage being returned to you

Reports must be submitted in writing to Air Vanuatu.

Conclusion 

The Air Vanuatu Baggage Policy offers a clear and practical approach to managing your luggage needs across both domestic and international flights. With dedicated provisions for cabin and checked baggage, support for families, and assistance for passengers with special needs, the airline ensures a smooth travel experience. Whether you’re flying with children, carrying medical items, or transporting sports equipment, understanding these guidelines ahead of time helps avoid surprises at the airport. 

By adhering to weight limits, restricted item rules, and check-in procedures, travelers can enjoy peace of mind knowing their journey is safe, compliant, and well-supported from start to finish.

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