Tanna Airport

Tanna Airport (Whitegrass Airport) is not just a runway, but a gateway to the world of ancient traditions and the pristine nature of Tanna island. It is here that travellers from all over the world arrive to witness with their own eyes the fiery breath of the active Mount Yasur volcano and to get acquainted with the unique culture of Vanuatu. The atmosphere of this small airport immediately sets the mood for adventure: there is no bustle of big cities here, only warm tropical air and the anticipation of unforgettable discoveries.

The main feature of Tanna Airport is its compactness and simplicity. It is a small terminal that serves domestic flights, mainly from the capital, Port Vila. There are no long queues or complicated procedures here: check-in and baggage claim are quick and take place in a friendly atmosphere. The airport is the key transport hub of the island, providing access to its main attractions. Immediately upon arrival, you will be met by representatives of local hotels and tour operators, ready to take you to the foot of the volcano or to secluded beaches with black volcanic sand. This is the ideal start for immersing yourself in the authentic life of one of the most mysterious islands in Oceania.

• Official Website: Tanna Airport is managed by Airports Vanuatu Ltd (AVL). Up-to-date information can be found on their official website: www.airports.vu.
• Inquiry Service Phone: A direct phone number for Tanna Airport for the general public is usually not published. For questions related to flight schedules, bookings, and tickets, it is recommended to contact your airline directly (e.g., Air Vanuatu).
• Airport Address: Whitegrass Airport (TAH), Tanna Island, Tafea Province, Vanuatu.
• Email: To contact the management company, Airports Vanuatu Ltd, you can use the contact form or the general email address provided on their official website in the contacts section.
• Social Media: Official news and updates can be tracked on Airports Vanuatu Ltd's social media pages, such as Facebook. Separate pages for Tanna Airport may not exist.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should contact the baggage tracing service of your airline. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact the airport administration via the contacts on the AVL website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support regarding flights, check-in, and special services is provided by airline representatives. For questions regarding the infrastructure and services of the airport itself, please contact Airports Vanuatu Ltd.

Getting to Tanna Airport (TAH) on the island of Tanna is a task that requires a little planning, as the transport system here differs significantly from major cities. In Vanuatu, especially on remote islands, familiar bus networks or metros are absent, and the main focus is on private transport.

Taxis and Private Transfers are the most popular and reliable way to get to the airport. Most hotels, bungalows, and tour operators offer a transfer service for their guests. This is the most convenient option: the driver will meet you at the appointed time, and the cost will be known in advance. You can also use the services of a local taxi, which is usually an SUV. It is recommended to order it through your hotel reception and be sure to agree on the price before the trip starts, as taximeters are not used here. The trip from the main settlement, the town of Lenakel, to the airport takes approximately 15–25 minutes.

Public Transport on the island is represented by local minibuses. This is the most budget-friendly way to travel, but also the most unpredictable. They do not have a strict schedule or official stops — they depart as they fill up and follow the main roads. This option is suitable if you have plenty of free time and want to experience the local colour, but it should not be relied upon if you are rushing for a flight.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for independent travellers. On Tanna, you can rent a 4x4 SUV, which will allow you not only to get to the airport but also to explore the entire island at your own pace. Keep in mind that most roads are unpaved and require off-road driving skills. As for parking, there is a simple area at the airport where you can leave a car for a short time for picking up and dropping off passengers. The conditions for returning a rental car at the airport must be clarified with the rental company in advance.

Key Recommendations:

• The best way to get to the airport without stress is to book a transfer through your hotel.
• Always carry enough cash in local currency (Vatu, VUV) to pay for the trip.
• Leave with extra time, as road conditions can be unpredictable, especially during the rainy season.

Tanna Airport (TAH), also known as Whitegrass Airport, is a small regional airport, and its structure is extremely simple and clear. There are no complex diagrams or confusing passageways here, making it very convenient for travellers arriving on the island.

The airport operates with just one terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. These are mainly domestic flights connecting Tanna Island with other parts of the Vanuatu archipelago, primarily with the capital, Port Vila. There are no separate terminals for domestic and international lines here — all operations are concentrated in one building.

The terminal layout is very compact. Essentially, it is one small building where the departure and arrival zones are located next to each other. After entering, you will immediately see the check-in counters, and the departure waiting area and boarding gate are just a few steps away. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all key points are within direct line of sight.

Thanks to the modest size of the airport and the small number of flights served simultaneously, all pre-flight procedures are very quick. Flight check-in and security screening usually take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive with a little spare time, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

The main advice for navigating Tanna Airport is not to worry. The entire process is intuitive: from the entrance of the building to boarding the plane, you are separated by only a few dozen metres. The airport staff are always friendly and ready to help if you have any questions.

The history of Tanna Airport (TAH), also known as Whitegrass Airport, is inextricably linked with the events of the 20th century and the development of tourism in Vanuatu. Its history is a journey from a strategic military facility to the key air gateway of one of the most mysterious islands in Melanesia.

The original airfield on Tanna island was built during World War II by the US Army. In those years, the Pacific region was an arena of active hostilities, and airstrips like this were created to support military operations and ensure logistics. After the war ended, the facility was transferred to civilian use and began to gradually adapt to peacetime needs, ensuring the island's connection with the outside world.

The real flourishing of the airport began with the growth of tourist interest in Vanuatu, and in particular, in the island's main attraction — the active Mount Yasur volcano. The airport became the main point of arrival for thousands of travellers wishing to see this natural wonder. Over the years, the simple airstrip has turned into a fully-fledged airport capable of receiving turboprop aircraft, such as the ATR 72, which form the backbone of the country's domestic air service.

In recent decades, Tanna Airport has gone through several stages of significant modernisation. As part of a major project to develop Vanuatu's aviation infrastructure (Vanuatu Aviation Investment Project), funded by international partners, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out. This included strengthening and paving the runway, installing new lighting equipment, and building a modern passenger terminal. These improvements have allowed for increased flight safety and increased airport capacity.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history, it is worth noting its name — "Whitegrass", which it received due to the characteristic light-coloured grass growing in its vicinity. In addition, airport operations are periodically suspended due to the activity of the Yasur volcano: ash clouds can pose a serious threat to aircraft. The airport has also repeatedly played a key role in delivering humanitarian aid to the island after destructive tropical cyclones, confirming its status as a vital facility for the entire region.

Tanna Airport (TAH) is a small regional airport serving as the main air gateway to the island. Given its size and purpose, the range of services here is basic and designed to meet the essential needs of passengers before departure or upon arrival.

Restaurants, Shops, and Lounges

At Tanna Airport, you will not find large restaurants or duty-free shops. The infrastructure usually includes a small kiosk or café where you can buy water, soft drinks, and light snacks. Here you can also find simple locally made souvenirs. There are no specialised VIP lounges at the airport, however, a general waiting hall is equipped for all passengers, where you can comfortably wait for your flight.

Connectivity and Finance

Stable access to Wi-Fi in the terminal is generally absent. The number of sockets for charging electronic devices is also limited, so it is recommended to bring a portable power bank. There are no bank branches or permanent currency exchange points at the airport. All financial transactions, including money exchange, are best done in advance in larger settlements, for example, in Port Vila.

Additional Services

• Medical Assistance: Basic first aid can be provided at the airport. For serious health problems, it is necessary to contact medical institutions on the island.
• For Passengers with Children: There are no specialised mother-and-child rooms or play areas, but the staff are always ready to help as much as possible.
• For Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airport infrastructure is simple. If you require special assistance (e.g., a wheelchair), it is extremely important to notify your airline in advance so that staff can prepare for your arrival or departure.
• Hotels and Business Services: There are no hotels within the airport grounds, but numerous bungalows and small resorts are located a few minutes' drive away. There are no conference rooms or business centres at the airport.

When planning a trip through Tanna Airport (TAH), it is important to understand that this is a small regional airport with a basic set of services. Dining options here are quite limited and designed for passengers who need a quick bite before departure, rather than a full gastronomic experience.

The main and, as a rule, the only place where you can buy food and drinks is a small café or kiosk. It is located in the main terminal hall, in the public zone (landside), that is, before passing security control. It is worth noting that after screening (airside), there is usually no opportunity to purchase food or drinks. Therefore, it is better to make all purchases in advance.

The assortment in the local café usually includes:

• Hot and cold drinks: coffee, tea, bottled water, juices, and fizzy drinks.
• Simple snacks: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and chocolate.
• Quick bites: sometimes you can find fresh local fruits, for example, bananas.

Travellers with strict dietary preferences (vegetarians, vegans, as well as those looking for gluten-free or Halal dishes) should be aware that specialised options are practically non-existent here. If you have special dietary requirements, the most reliable option would be to bring food with you.

It is also important to remember that prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than in the town. The café operates according to the flight schedule — opening before departures and closing shortly after them. If you are counting on a hearty lunch, it is better to eat at one of the establishments on Tanna island before arriving at the airport.

Travelling through the airport on Tanna island is generally a calm and straightforward process. To make it even more comfortable, use these tips.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within Vanuatu, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. Although the terminal is small and queues are rare here, the extra time will allow you to go through all formalities without rushing.

Check-in and Security: Procedures at Tanna Airport usually go much faster than at major international hubs. To speed up the process, prepare your passport and electronic or printed ticket in advance. Security staff are friendly but follow standard protocols.

Seat Selection: When flying to or from Tanna, we strongly recommend choosing a window seat. You will be treated to unforgettable views of the active Mount Yasur volcano, lush tropical rainforests, and the Pacific Ocean coast.

Hand Luggage: Remember standard restrictions: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited. Special attention is paid to the import and export of plants, seeds, and food products to protect the island's unique ecosystem. It is better to check the rules of the specific airline in advance.

Connecting Passengers: Tanna Airport mainly serves direct flights, so long layovers are rare here. If you have a short transfer, stay in the terminal building. Leisure opportunities here are limited, so in the event of a long delay, it is worth checking with the airline about the possibility and advisability of going into town.

Bio-security Rules: Vanuatu has strict rules regarding the movement of plants, seeds, and food products between islands. This is done to protect unique ecosystems, like the one on Tanna island, from invasive species and diseases. Be prepared for your luggage to be inspected. It is strongly recommended not to transport fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants between islands without prior clarification of the rules to avoid delays and fines.

Saving Time and Money: Book flight tickets in advance, especially during the high season. Travel light to avoid extra charges for excess baggage. Have some cash in local currency (Vatu) with you to pay for small services or purchases at the airport, as card payment may not be available everywhere.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, remain calm. Find a representative of your airline to get up-to-date information. In small airports like this one, staff are often more accessible and can provide personal assistance.