Vanuatu's government says plans to upgrade the country's main airports remain on track, with construction work expected to start by the end of August.
Photo: Wrecks to Rainforest
The World Bank-funded upgrade was hurriedly negotiated last year, after Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia cancelled their services to Vanuatu, citing safety concerns about the runway at Port Vila.
The Vanuatu Project Management Unit said the contractors had been mobilising for the effort, including setting up bases, importing equipment, hiring staff and consulting with communities.
The manager of the Aviation Investment Project, Harrison Toar Luen, said work was on schedule and they were continuing to work closely with international airlines.
Under the project, the runway, taxiway and aprons at the Port Vila airport - the country's international gateway - will be reconstructed.
Negotiations were underway for a second phase, which includes a new terminal at Port Vila and improvements to airports in Tanna and Santo.