Recently, the people of Temotu, a province in the Solomon Islands, have voiced their frustration over the limited flight options to and from their region provided by Solomon Airlines. While many are calling for more frequent flights, a key concern has been the sky-high cost of this domestic flight tickets, which are often more expensive than international flights to neighboring countries like Vanuatu or even Brisbane, Australia.
The call began when Sharon Inone, a prominent figure in the Solomon Islands, took to Facebook to highlight the issue. Her post quickly gained traction, resonating with many who shared their own experiences of costly flights that often exceed their financial capabilities. Inone’s post created a shook of public frustration, with many accusing Solomon Airlines, the national carrier, of neglecting the needs of Temotu’s residents.
Locals argue that the lack of affordable and frequent flights is isolating Temotu, making it harder for people to travel for business, education, or medical needs. The high ticket prices, they claim, only add to the sense of unfair treatment, as flights to more distant locations like Vanuatu or Brisbane are sometimes cheaper.
This issue highlights a broader concern about the accessibility of air travel in the Solomon Islands, with Temotu at the heart of the ongoing debate. For now, the call for more flights and fairer pricing continues to grow, as the people of Temotu seek to have their voices heard.
Read Sharon’s post below;
Solomon Airlines ,Temotu Province pays the highest airfares in SI. We have zero passenger ship(s), and we are the furthest province. With a population of 23,000, the Twin otter 20-seater plane you are sending once a week is like asking for war everytime the plane lands on Santa Cruz.
Please consider increasing the number of flights per week to your original 3xs per week to Temotu. The once a week flight you currently run is not helping us at all. Every time our people argue with their officers and with themselves for space.
We support you
You support us
Please send us more planes per week
On behalf of all concerned Temotuans.
With love, respect & gratitude for your service
Brandon added to the post from Sharon Inone with some sad facts.
Read below:
Please send us more planes per week
On behalf of all concerned Temotuans.
With love, respect & gratitude for your service.
Further, let me add this analysis of fare and distance for information purposes.
1. The distance from Honiara International Airport (Solomon Islands) to Port Vila Airport (Vanuatu) is approximately 1,230 kilometres (765 miles) and you only pay SBD 2245.
2. The distance from Honiara International Airport (Solomon Islands) to Brisbane Airport (Australia) is approximately 1,550 kilometres (960 miles) and you only pay SBD 4,130
3. The distance from Honiara International Airport (Solomon Islands) to Santa Cruz Airport (Temotu Province, Solomon Islands) is approximately 370 kilometres (230 miles) and you pay SBD 5980 plus.
4. The distance from Honiara International Airport to Lomlom Airport is approximately 450 kilometers (280 miles) and you pay SBD 6000 plus.
So it seems Temotu People are paying international fares for Hongkong and Los Angeles while domestic fares is applied for Australia and Vanuatu.
Oketa frens blo mi lo media try putim kind news ia lo headline.
Thoughts? Iumi stori
