Tropical airstrip at Barakoma Airport on Vella Lavella, Solomon Islands, framed by palm trees with turquoise ocean beyond

Airport

Barakoma Airport (VEV)

Barakoma Airport is a small domestic gateway on Vella Lavella Island in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands, connecting travellers to the nearby village of Barakoma and the provincial capital, Gizo. Transfer options include local boat services to Gizo and onward connections to other islands.

Passengers

Luggage

About Barakoma Airport

Barakoma Airport is a small domestic airport serving Vella Lavella Island in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands. The airfield originated as a US-built World War II airstrip and became operational in 1943.

Located near the village of Barakoma on the island's southeast coast, the airport connects Vella Lavella with Gizo and Honiara through Solomon Airlines domestic services. It supports local communities, visitors and inter-island travel across the Western Province.

The nearest main town is Gizo, the provincial capital, about 27 km away and reached by boat or a short connecting flight. Boat services link Vella Lavella with Gizo and nearby islands, while local roads lead to villages along the coast.

As a small regional facility, the airport offers basic passenger services rather than large terminal amenities, and it remains an important link for residents and travellers moving around the western Solomon Islands.

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Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Barakoma Airport operates from a small single terminal used for domestic passenger services. The terminal handles arriving and departing flights on Vella Lavella Island, with Solomon Airlines providing regional connections.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Barakoma Airport

Transfers

Book a private transfer from Barakoma Airport to local villages, lodges and beach areas on Vella Lavella Island.

Hourly Chauffeur

Arrange a chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel on Vella Lavella Island or for connections to boat services and nearby meeting points.

Car Rental

Arrange a vehicle through local providers for independent travel on Vella Lavella Island, or confirm rental options in Gizo before arrival.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organise minibus or combined boat and bus connections for groups travelling between Barakoma Airport, local communities and Gizo.