Air Vanuatu appoints Philippe Busson as chief executive officer

Air Vanuatu has named Philippe Busson as chief executive officer of its operations arm, with the handover set for 1 August 2026. He replaces Joseph Laloyer after a board-led recruitment process that drew more than 30 applicants and was completed before the public announcement.

The carrier said the appointment is intended to align leadership with safety, reliability and financial sustainability as the airline continues its rebuild. For operators and suppliers, the change gives the national carrier a defined transition point at a time when execution and cash discipline remain under scrutiny.