1. How would you define the strategic role of Air Tahiti Nui in connecting French Polynesia to the international market?
Air Tahiti Nui was created nearly 28 years ago with a clear mission: to connect French Polynesia to key international markets. First and foremost, that means the United States, especially California, as well as broader North America and Europe, particularly France. We also play a vital role in linking Polynesia to the South Pacific, including Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.
This connectivity is not only economic but also a matter of sovereignty. It enables Polynesians to travel abroad while allowing tourists and business actors to access the islands. Today, Air Tahiti Nui accounts for roughly half of international traffic into Papeete, which highlights our central role.
2. What is the importance of the Los Angeles route and the North American market for your development?
The connection to Los Angeles is essential. Historically, Polynesia has had deep ties with California dating back to World War II, when an American base was established in Bora Bora. Since then, the U.S. market, especially high-end tourism, has been fundamental to our development.
Today, American visitors represent about half of all tourists to Polynesia and roughly 35% of our business. To support this, we partner with major U.S. airlines like American Airlines and Alaska Airlines, enabling seamless connections.
What sets us apart is that the Polynesian experience begins the moment passengers board our aircraft. From Los Angeles, they are already immersed in Tahitian culture before they even arrive.
3. How does Air Tahiti Nui contribute to positioning French Polynesia as a premium global destination?
Tourism is a cornerstone of the Polynesian economy, and Air Tahiti Nui plays a key role in promoting the destination globally. We work closely with tourism authorities and maintain strong marketing teams, particularly in California.
Beyond aviation, Polynesia offers a high-end ecosystem: luxury resorts, boutique cruises, and unique experiences across islands like Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. Our airline complements this by delivering a premium, culturally rich travel experience that aligns with the destination’s positioning.
4. What are your main investments in fleet modernization and customer experience?
We operate a modern fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are among the most advanced aircraft in the industry. We are currently investing in cabin renovations scheduled for 2027–2028 to maintain a high level of comfort and reflect Polynesian hospitality. Our goal is to combine cutting-edge technology with a uniquely warm and immersive onboard experience.
5. In a highly competitive environment, how do you differentiate Air Tahiti Nui?
Our strongest differentiator is identity. Air Tahiti Nui is more than an airline, it is an ambassador of French Polynesia. Passengers feel the culture, warmth, and authenticity from the moment they step onboard, whether in Paris or Los Angeles, Auckland or Narita
Polynesian hospitality is genuine and effortless. Combined with high-quality service, excellent cuisine, and end-to-end customer care, it creates a unique experience.
We are a smaller airline, but that is our strength. Our teams are highly motivated and closely connected, allowing us to deliver a personalized service that larger carriers often cannot match. Our positioning reflects this: “The Most Immersive Airline.”
6. How do you manage dependence on international tourism while ensuring resilience?
Polynesia maintains a balanced tourism model, with roughly one tourist per resident, which is sustainable compared to many destinations. There is also a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to family guesthouses and cruises, spreading tourism across the islands.
Additionally, the government carefully regulates tourism development to preserve quality and avoid over-tourism. Sustainability is a priority, with strong efforts in renewable energy, environmental protection, and biodiversity conservation.
Air Tahiti Nui actively supports these initiatives through partnerships and by educating passengers about responsible tourism practices. As part of its voluntary carbon offset program, the airline has chosen to support a local environmental project led by the SOP Manu association: the protection of the Tahitian Monarch, an endemic species that is now critically endangered.
7. What steps are you taking to reduce your carbon footprint?
Sustainability is a major focus. Our Dreamliners are already more fuel-efficient than older aircraft. We also optimize operations through lighter loads and eco-piloting techniques.
We are exploring sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), although production is still limited in the region. Personally, I am involved in initiatives to develop SAF ecosystems in the Pacific.
Onboard, we are reducing single-use plastics, sourcing local products, and implementing circular economy practices. These efforts are ongoing and involve all our teams.
8. How do you support local employment and social initiatives?
Supporting the local community is part of our DNA. We prioritize hiring and training Polynesian staff, including relaunching training programs for cabin crew.
We also collaborate with local organizations, including social programs and environmental groups. For example, we work with associations on recycling and upcycling initiatives and support community-based projects.
Our goal is to contribute meaningfully to Polynesia’s social and economic fabric.
9. What is your vision for the future of Air Tahiti Nui?
Our vision is to grow sustainably while strengthening our role as a connector and ambassador of French Polynesia. We aim to expand our network through strategic partnerships, with airlines like American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Qantas, while exploring new markets in Asia and the South Pacific.
We also want to position Tahiti as a hub in the Pacific, offering travelers the opportunity to connect to destinations like Sydney, Auckland, and Tokyo.
Ultimately, our ambition is to grow responsibly, remain competitive, and continue delivering a uniquely Polynesian experience.
10. What message would you like to send to Los Angeles Times readers?
“Le Pacifique est pacifique”*: Polynesia is a place of peace in a complex world. It is safe, welcoming, and deeply authentic. Visitors come not only for the landscapes but for the human connection and sense of calm.
And importantly, it’s closer than people think. From Los Angeles, it’s just a short flight, even closer than Hawaii in some respects.
If you come, choose Air Tahiti Nui. Your journey begins the moment you board. You’ll already feel like you’re in Tahiti before you even arrive.
*The Pacific is peaceful
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