Solomon Airlines

Discover the authentic spirit of the South Pacific with Solomon Airlines, the national carrier of the Solomon Islands. More than just a transportation service, this airline serves as a vital lifeline connecting the scattered tropical archipelagos of this unique nation while bridging the gap to major regional neighbors. Whether you are planning an island-hopping adventure or transit through Oceania, the carrier offers a warm, hospitable welcome that reflects the relaxed and friendly culture of the "Hapi Isles." With a history dating back over six decades, it prides itself on delivering essential connectivity and reliable service to some of the most pristine and remote corners of the world.

Established in 1962 as Megapode Airways, the company has grown into a fully state-owned enterprise known today as Solomon Airlines. It plays a crucial role in the region's infrastructure, operating a dual network that serves both international travelers and local communities. From its base in Honiara, the airline facilitates tourism and trade, ensuring that the breathtaking lagoons and cultural heritage of the Solomon Islands are accessible to the world.

For international visitors, the airline provides key gateways into the country through regular scheduled flights. The carrier operates frequent services to Brisbane, which serves as a major connecting point for long-haul travelers. Additionally, the airline strengthens regional ties with flights to Auckland, Nadi in Fiji, and Port Vila in Vanuatu. Domestically, the airline is indispensable, flying to numerous destinations including Munda, Gizo, and Choiseul Bay, allowing tourists to explore off-the-beaten-path dive sites and eco-resorts.

The airline maintains a mixed fleet tailored to its diverse operational needs. International routes are typically served by the Airbus A320, which offers a comfortable, full-service experience including meals and baggage allowance. For domestic island-hopping, the carrier utilizes robust De Havilland Dash 8 and Twin Otter aircraft, specifically designed to handle the short runways and rugged terrain of the outer islands. Passengers often praise the airline for its genuine Melanesian hospitality and the scenic views afforded during low-altitude domestic flights.

Safety is a paramount priority for the company. The carrier adheres to strict international safety standards and maintenance protocols, ensuring reliable operations across its network. Their mission focuses on providing safe, customer-focused, and sustainable air services that contribute to the social and economic development of the Solomon Islands. By maintaining these high standards, they continue to be the preferred choice for travel within this captivating region of the Pacific.

Contacting Solomon Airlines from the UAE

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, the most reliable way to contact Solomon Airlines is through their official online platforms or by reaching out directly to their international headquarters. As the airline does not maintain a permanent local office in the UAE, we recommend using their email support or website for managing itineraries to avoid international calling fees.

Official Website

The airline's official website allows you to book flights, check schedules, and manage existing reservations from anywhere in the world.

• Official Website: www.flysolomons.com

Contact Information

Since there is no dedicated customer service number for the United Arab Emirates, please use the following international contacts. Note: International call charges will apply to the numbers listed below.

• Reservations Email: reservations@flysolomons.com
• Headquarters Phone (Solomon Islands): +677 20031
• Sales Office Phone (Australia): +61 7 3860 5883
• Group Bookings: groups@flysolomons.com

Social Media

You can also reach out to the airline or check for updates via their official social media channels:

• Facebook: Solomon Airlines
• Instagram: @flysolomons
• X (Twitter): @flysolomons

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Solomon Airlines currently does not have a physical branch, ticketing office, or airport counter in the United Arab Emirates.

• Dubai / Abu Dhabi Office: None available.
• Recommendation: Please direct all inquiries to the email addresses provided above or use the "Manage Booking" tool on the official website.

Support Hours

Customer service operates primarily on Solomon Islands Time (SBT), which is GMT+11.

• Time Difference: The Solomon Islands are approximately 7 hours ahead of the UAE.
• Best Time to Call: We suggest calling between 04:00 AM and 10:00 AM UAE time to reach the support team during their standard business hours.

Preparing for your journey with Solomon Airlines requires a good understanding of their baggage policies, especially given the unique nature of travel within the archipelago. As the national carrier, the airline operates a mix of modern jets for international routes and smaller aircraft for domestic island-hopping, each with distinct weight limitations. Familiarizing yourself with these allowances ensures a smooth transit, particularly if you are connecting from a long-haul flight to a smaller local plane.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

For all flights, passengers are generally permitted one piece of carry-on luggage. The standard allowance is 7 kg (15 lbs) per passenger. This bag must fit securely in the overhead locker or under the seat in front of you. In addition to the main carry-on item, you may bring a small personal item such as a laptop bag, handbag, or camera case. Given the limited cabin space on smaller domestic aircraft like the Twin Otter, it is advisable to keep carry-on items compact and within standard dimensions.

Checked Baggage: International Flights

On international services, such as flights departing from Brisbane or Auckland, the airline offers generous baggage limits to accommodate travelers. Economy Class passengers are typically entitled to 30 kg of checked baggage, while Business Class passengers enjoy an increased allowance of 40 kg. This generous policy is designed to help tourists bring necessary supplies or gifts, but it is always best to check your specific ticket conditions as limits can vary based on fare types.

Checked Baggage: Domestic Flights

If you are connecting through Honiara to other islands, be aware that domestic baggage allowances are stricter due to the size of the aircraft. The standard checked baggage limit for domestic flights is 16 kg (35 lbs). If you are traveling on a continuous ticket from an international flight, the international allowance may sometimes apply to your domestic leg, but this is subject to aircraft weight constraints. It is crucial to confirm this at the time of booking to avoid surprises at the check-in counter.

Excess Baggage and Special Items

Excess baggage is charged on a per-kilogram basis and fees can accumulate quickly, so pre-planning is essential. For travelers bringing sports equipment, such as surfboards or diving gear—which are popular items for visitors exploring the coral reefs near Port Vila or the Solomon Islands—special handling rules apply. Generally, sports equipment is included within your total weight allowance. If your gear exceeds the weight limit, excess fees will be charged. Heavy items must be packed securely to prevent damage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, certain items are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage. These include flammable liquids, explosives, corrosives, and compressed gases. Lithium batteries and power banks must never be placed in checked luggage and should be carried in your cabin bag. Additionally, since the Solomon Islands has strict biosecurity laws, avoid packing fresh fruits, vegetables, or seeds unless they have been declared and cleared, as this protects the local ecosystem.

Packing Tips for Island Travel

When traveling to remote destinations, soft-sided bags or duffel bags are highly recommended over hard-shell suitcases. Soft bags are easier to stow in the smaller cargo holds of regional aircraft. If you are traveling in a group, consider distributing weight evenly among bags. Always pack essential medications and travel documents in your carry-on. If you know you will have excess weight, arriving at the airport early to arrange payment is recommended, as space for excess baggage is on a standby basis for full flights.

Traveling with pets on Solomon Airlines requires careful planning due to the strict biosecurity laws enforced in the Solomon Islands and neighboring regions like Australia and New Zealand. While the airline understands the importance of your furry companions, adherence to international animal transport regulations is mandatory to ensure the safety of the animal and the protection of local ecosystems.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

Transporting pets in the cabin is generally highly restricted on flights within this region and is typically reserved for trained assistance dogs only.

• Carrier dimensions: Must fit comfortably under the seat (approx. 40×30×20 cm).
• Maximum pet weight: Generally limited to 7-8 kg including the carrier (if permitted).
• Allowed pet types: Primarily restricted to certified service and assistance dogs.
• Breed restrictions: Dangerous breeds are strictly prohibited in the cabin.
• Limit per passenger: One animal per passenger, subject to approval.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

For domestic flights within the Solomon Islands, pets may sometimes be accepted as checked baggage, provided the aircraft type allows it.

• Container requirements: IATA-compliant rigid plastic or fiberglass crates with secure locking mechanisms.
• Weight and size limits: Must not exceed the aircraft's cargo door dimensions or weight capacity.
• Temperature restrictions: Pets will not be accepted if extreme heat or cold poses a health risk on the tarmac.
• Required documentation: Indemnity forms and health declarations must be signed at check-in.

As cargo (for large animals)

This is the primary method for international travel to or from destinations like Brisbane or Auckland due to quarantine regulations.

• When required: Mandatory for almost all international flights and unaccompanied animals.
• Special requirements: Must be booked through the airline's freight department or a pet transport agent.
• Booking procedure: Arrangements should be made at least 14 days in advance to ensure space.

Required Documentation

• Veterinary passport: Up-to-date records of the pet's medical history.
• Health certificate: Issued by a veterinarian within a specific timeframe (usually 3-10 days) before travel.
• Vaccinations: Current rabies vaccination and other breed-specific shots.
• Import/Export Permits: Essential for entry into the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, or Australia.
• Biosecurity clearance: Official clearance documents from the destination country's quarantine authority.

Service Costs

• In-cabin fee: Typically free for authorized service animals; otherwise subject to excess baggage rates if allowed.
• Cargo hold fee: Charged based on the combined weight of the animal and crate (excess baggage rates apply).
• Freight charges: Calculated based on volumetric weight for manifest cargo (contact freight department for quotes).
• Note: Prices vary significantly by route, especially for international sectors.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Ensure the crate allows the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal approximately 4 hours before the flight to prevent nausea.
• Hydration: Freeze water in the crate's bowl so it melts slowly during the journey without spilling.
• Stress reduction: Place a familiar blanket or toy inside the crate to comfort your pet.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) animals are often restricted due to respiratory risks.
• Prohibited animals: Endangered species and certain rodents or reptiles may be banned.
• Exceptions: Certified service animals are exempt from many weight and cabin restrictions.
• Route restrictions: Some aircraft, like the smaller Twin Otters used for domestic routes, have limited capacity for live animals.

Important: Animal import rules for the Solomon Islands and its neighbors are complex. We strongly recommend contacting Solomon Airlines and the relevant biosecurity authorities directly well in advance of your trip to verify current requirements.

Belama Club Loyalty Program

Solomon Airlines invites frequent travelers to experience the Belama Club, an exclusive membership program designed to elevate the journey through immediate, premium benefits. Unlike traditional schemes that strictly require long-term mileage accumulation, this program offers instant access to priority handling and comfort, ensuring a seamless travel experience across the airline's network.

Membership Tiers

The program is structured into two distinct levels to suit different travel needs: Belama Club and Belama Plus. Each tier is tailored to provide specific privileges that enhance the passenger experience on the ground and in the air.

• Belama Club: This standard membership tier provides essential premium perks. Members enjoy priority check-in services, preferred seat selection, and exclusive access to the Belama Lounge in Honiara, allowing for a relaxing start to their journey.
• Belama Plus: Designed for high-frequency travelers who require additional flexibility, this tier includes all the benefits of the standard club but adds valuable extras. Belama Plus members are entitled to additional baggage allowance and have the privilege of inviting guests to join them in the lounge.

Travel Benefits

Membership in the Belama Club guarantees recognition and convenience throughout the travel process. Key advantages include:

• Lounge Access: Members can relax in the comfort of the Belama Lounge at Honiara International Airport, enjoying complimentary refreshments and a quiet space before their flight.
• Brisbane Express Clearance: For those traveling through Brisbane, members can utilize the Express Clearance service (Express Path) to expedite their departure process.
• Priority Services: Access to dedicated check-in counters and priority boarding ensures members spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying their trip.

Partnerships and Earning Points

While the Belama Club focuses on immediate service benefits, Solomon Airlines maintains strong regional connections that offer additional value to passengers:

• Qantas Partnership: Passengers flying on codeshare services marketed by Qantas may be eligible to earn points in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. This benefit is subject to specific fare classes and ticket conditions, linking the island carrier to a broader global network.

How to Join

Becoming a member is a straightforward process for those seeking immediate travel perks:

• Application: Travelers can download the application form from the official website or visit a sales office to enroll.
• Fees: Membership functions on an annual fee basis, with costs varying between the standard Belama Club and the Belama Plus tiers.
• Activation: Once processed, members receive their card and can immediately start utilizing priority services and lounge facilities in Honiara.

Flying with Solomon Airlines is an experience defined by warm Melanesian hospitality, offering passengers a comfortable and friendly journey across the South Pacific. Whether you are traveling internationally on their Airbus A320 or hopping between islands on smaller turboprop aircraft, the airline strives to ensure a pleasant flight with services tailored to the unique needs of the region.

Service Classes

Business Class (Belama Class)

On international routes, such as flights to Brisbane or Auckland, the airline offers an exclusive premium cabin known as Belama Class. This service is designed for travelers seeking extra comfort and privacy.

• Seating: Passengers enjoy wider leather seats with generous pitch and recline, providing ample legroom to relax or work.
• Priority: The experience begins on the ground with priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.
• Exclusive Extras: Guests are welcomed with a refreshing cold towel and a pre-flight beverage, setting a relaxed tone for the journey.

Economy Class

The Economy cabin offers a value-focused yet comfortable experience. On the Airbus A320, the cabin features a standard 3-3 configuration with ergonomically designed slimline seats.

• Comfort: The leather seats provide adequate legroom for regional flights, and the cabin crew's friendly service ensures a welcoming atmosphere.
• Domestic Flights: On domestic routes operated by Dash-8 or Twin Otter aircraft, the seating is more compact. While amenities are simpler, these flights offer arguably the best "entertainment" of all—stunning aerial views of the coral reefs and lagoons of the Solomon Islands.

In-Flight Dining

Solomon Airlines takes pride in keeping its passengers well-fed and hydrated, with full-service hospitality included on international sectors.

• International Meals: All passengers on international flights receive a complimentary hot meal. The menu often features a blend of international cuisine and local island flavors.
• Beverages: A selection of complimentary beverages is available. Economy passengers can enjoy tea, coffee, soft drinks, and a selection of beer and wine. Belama Class passengers are offered a premium selection of wines and spirits to complement their meals.
• Domestic Service: Due to the short duration of domestic island hops, service is generally limited to light refreshments or water, depending on the flight time and aircraft type.

Entertainment and Amenities

The airline offers a classic flying experience. While you won't find high-tech seatback screens, the airline provides other ways to stay engaged during your trip.

• Reading Material: Passengers can browse the complimentary in-flight magazine, Solomons, which is filled with travel inspiration, local stories, and guides to the destinations served.
• Digital Detox: As in-flight Wi-Fi and streaming systems are not currently available, it is the perfect opportunity to disconnect. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own books, tablets, or downloaded content.
• Amenities: On longer international sectors, pillows and blankets are typically available upon request to enhance comfort.

Special Services

The airline is committed to making travel accessible and safe for all passengers, offering specific assistance when arranged in advance.

• Families and Children: Infants (under 2 years) can travel on a parent's lap for a reduced fare. For unaccompanied minors, the airline provides a dedicated service to ensure children traveling alone are supervised from check-in until they are handed over to their guardian at the destination (e.g., Honiara or Port Vila).
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchair assistance is available at international airports. However, due to the infrastructure at some remote domestic airstrips, passengers with severe mobility limitations should consult with the airline during booking to ensure their specific destination can accommodate their needs.
• Dietary Requirements: Special meals (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) can be requested for international flights. These requests must be made at least 48 hours prior to departure to guarantee availability.

Destinations and Route Network

From its strategic hub in Honiara, Solomon Airlines operates a vital network that spans the South Pacific. As the national carrier, it performs a dual role: providing essential international links to major cities in Oceania and maintaining a comprehensive domestic schedule that connects the scattered islands of the archipelago. This connectivity is crucial for both local communities and travelers eager to explore the region's pristine coral reefs and World War II historical sites.

International Connections

The airline offers robust connections to key gateways in the region, making the Solomon Islands accessible to the world. The most frequent international service connects Honiara with Brisbane, serving as the primary entry point for travelers from Australia and beyond. The carrier also strengthens regional ties with regular flights to Auckland and Port Vila in Vanuatu. Additionally, the network includes services to Nadi in Fiji and Luganville, facilitating island-hopping itineraries across the Pacific.

Domestic Island Hopping

Within the Solomon Islands, the carrier is the primary mode of transport, flying to over 20 domestic airstrips. The domestic network is designed to support tourism and local travel, with frequent services to popular diving and leisure destinations such as Munda and Gizo. The airline also serves remoter communities, including Choiseul Bay, Batuna, Fera Island, and Kagau, often utilizing versatile aircraft capable of landing on short, rugged runways.

Popular Routes

Below is a list of the most frequently operated routes based on recent flight data, showcasing the airline's focus on connecting Honiara with international hubs and linking provincial centers.

Securing a flight with Solomon Airlines is the first step toward an unforgettable adventure in the South Pacific. To ensure you get the best value for your money, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least two to three months in advance, especially for international sectors. Prices often rise significantly as the departure date approaches, particularly during peak holiday seasons in the region. Keeping an eye on their official website for promotional sales or signing up for their newsletter can also help you snag a great deal on fares.

When planning your itinerary, consider the airline's key connections to maximize your travel efficiency. Popular international routes include flights from Brisbane to the carrier's main hub in Honiara, as well as connections between Auckland and Port Vila. If you are exploring the domestic network, flights to destinations like Munda or Gizo offer spectacular aerial views of the archipelago, so booking early ensures you can secure a schedule that fits your island-hopping plans.

To streamline your airport experience, take advantage of online check-in options where available. This service typically opens 24 hours before departure and allows you to confirm your details and avoid long queues at the airport counters. When selecting your seat, we highly recommend choosing a window seat. The approach into islands like Honiara or flyovers near Port Vila often provide breathtaking views of coral reefs and turquoise lagoons that you won't want to miss.

Finally, given the remote nature of the destinations and the potential for tropical weather to impact flight schedules, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers flight cancellations and delays. While managing your booking, keeping a digital copy of your itinerary on your mobile device is wise, as internet connectivity can be intermittent in some of the more secluded islands.

The story of Solomon Airlines is deeply intertwined with the development of the nation itself, tracing its roots back to 1962. It began operations under the name Megapode Airways, a small charter service founded by a private aviator using a single Piper Apache aircraft. In these early years, the carrier focused on connecting the remote and scattered islands of the archipelago, providing a vital link for local communities where road infrastructure was non-existent. By the late 1960s, the airline had evolved into Solomon Islands Airways, known locally as SOLAIR, and began expanding its domestic network with more robust aircraft suited for short, rugged airstrips.

A significant turning point occurred in the 1980s when the government acquired full ownership of the carrier, aiming to establish a true national flagship. In 1988, the company was officially rebranded as Solomon Airlines, marking a new era of ambition and growth. This period saw the launch of international scheduled services, a major milestone that transformed the carrier from a domestic operator into a regional player. By leasing a Boeing 737, the airline began connecting Honiara to key Pacific hubs, opening the door for international tourism and trade.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the airline continued to modernize its fleet and refine its route map to better serve the South Pacific. The evolution of its fleet has been strategic, moving from the early propeller planes to a mixed operation of jet and turboprop aircraft. The introduction of the Airbus A320 into its lineup was a major advancement, offering enhanced comfort and capacity for longer sectors to Brisbane and beyond. Simultaneously, the domestic fleet was upgraded to include the reliable De Havilland Dash 8 and Twin Otter aircraft, which remain the workhorses for island-hopping adventures today.

In recent years, the carrier has focused on strengthening its partnerships and regional connectivity. Significant route developments have included the establishment of regular services linking Auckland with Port Vila, creating a seamless travel corridor across Melanesia. The airline has also actively pursued code-share agreements with major regional carriers, effectively expanding its reach and allowing passengers easier access to the Solomon Islands from around the globe.

Today, the airline stands as a symbol of national pride and resilience. It has successfully navigated the challenges of the aviation industry by adhering to strict international safety standards, including achieving IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification. Modern developments focus on sustainability and digital innovation to improve the passenger experience, ensuring that this historic carrier remains the preferred bridge to the "Hapi Isles" for future generations.