Small tropical airstrip on Mota Lava, Vanuatu, framed by coconut palms and turquoise Pacific coastline at golden hour

Airport

Mota Lava Airport (MTV)

Mota Lava Airport is a small domestic gateway to the island of Mota Lava in the Banks Islands of northern Vanuatu. Compare transfer options from the airstrip to nearby Aplow village, the island's main centre, and onward connections to Sola and Espiritu Santo.

Passengers

Luggage

About Mota Lava Airport

Mota Lava Airport, also known as Valua Airport, is a small domestic airstrip on the eastern end of Mota Lava island in the Banks Islands of northern Vanuatu. It serves the Torba Province and connects the island with regional hubs at Espiritu Santo and Sola.

The airport has a single unpaved grass and dirt runway of about 900 metres, used mainly by Air Vanuatu's short take-off and landing aircraft. Operations are carried out during daylight hours under visual flight rules, and the facility has no conventional passenger terminal.

The airstrip lies about 12 km from the island's main centre and close to the village of Aplow. Ground transport is limited, so visitors should arrange village or guesthouse transfers in advance rather than expecting a regular taxi service.

As a small outer-island gateway, the airport provides an essential link for local communities, supplies and travelers exploring the Banks Islands, with onward domestic connections through Santo Pekoa International Airport and Sola.

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Terminal Overview

Travelers walking beneath terminal signs inside an airport

Terminals

Mota Lava Airport does not have a conventional passenger terminal; it operates as a basic regional airstrip with a small sheltered area used for domestic arrivals and departures.

Ground Transportation Services to and from Mota Lava Airport

Transfers

Book a private transfer from Mota Lava Airport to villages, guesthouses and the island's main centre, arranged in advance for a reliable arrival.

Hourly Chauffeur

Arrange a local driver by the hour for flexible travel from the airport to villages, coastal areas and points across Mota Lava.

Car Rental

A 4WD hire vehicle can be arranged through local contacts for independent travel around Mota Lava and nearby areas.

Bus & Group Transfers

Organize a vehicle or boat transfer for groups traveling between Mota Lava Airport, villages and coastal areas of the island.