Air Tahiti Nui announces the opening of a direct route between Tahiti and Australia | News
Air Tahiti Nui continues to develop its international network and announces the launch of a new direct service between Papeete and Sydney (PPT-SYD).
This new service is part of the airline’s strategy to sustainably strengthen French Polynesia’s connectivity with major regional hubs in the South Pacific.
The first flight is scheduled for Monday, December 14, 2026. Air Tahiti Nui will operate two flights per week, offering travelers a direct, non-stop connection between Tahiti and Australia. This service will significantly reduce travel time and simplify travel between the two destinations.
The planned flight schedule can be found in this press release (subject to validation by the airport authorities).
The islands of Tahiti continue to exert a strong appeal to the Australian market, which is among the destination’s most dynamic international segments. According to the latest preliminary data from ISPF, French Polynesia welcomed almost 279,000 visitors in 2025 – a new tourism record, continuing the positive momentum of recent years.
Australian demand remains encouraging. With approximately 8,165 visitors in 2025, Australia plays an important role in diversifying and strengthening tourist flows to the destination.
As a major hub in the Pacific Ocean, Sydney represents a strategic gateway for enhanced regional connectivity.
“We are very pleased to announce this new direct service between Papeete and Sydney,” said Lionel Guérin, Chief Executive Officer of Air Tahiti Nui. “With two direct flights per week and our codeshare agreement with Qantas, this service offers Australian travelers greater comfort and additional frequencies, complementing our twice-weekly service to Auckland, New Zealand.”
In addition to passenger transport, the launch of the Papeete-Sydney service also creates new opportunities for freight transport, supporting the development of economic exchanges between Australia and French Polynesia.
As across its network, Air Tahiti Nui will deliver an immersive travel experience on this new service, inspired by the spirit of its islands. The Polynesian hospitality, provided by the airline’s teams, will accompany each passenger on a journey characterized by comfort, attention and warmth.
Tickets can be booked now. This new service marks a further step in the development of Air Tahiti Nui’s network and strengthens French Polynesia’s direct connectivity with key regional and international markets.
