Air Calin

Often referred to as the "Hibiscus" airline, Air Calin serves as the international carrier of New Caledonia, bridging the gap between this unique French archipelago and the rest of the world. Established with a vision to boost tourism and maintain vital economic links, the airline embodies the warm spirit of the Pacific combined with distinct French elegance. Travelers stepping aboard are immediately immersed in the island atmosphere, enjoying a service style that reflects the cultural richness of the Kanak heritage and modern comfort. Whether you are embarking on a tropical getaway or a long-haul journey, Air Calin promises a flight experience defined by hospitality and reliability.

Founded in 1983, Air Calin was created to ensure New Caledonia's connectivity with the world. Over the decades, it has evolved from a small regional carrier into a modern airline that plays a crucial role in the economic and tourism development of the territory. The airline is committed to a mission of safety, punctuality, and promoting the destination, acting as a true ambassador for the archipelago.

The carrier operates a highly focused network that connects its home base in Nouméa with key cities in Oceania and Asia. Travelers can enjoy direct connections to major regional hubs such as Brisbane and Sydney in Australia, as well as Auckland in New Zealand. For those venturing further, the airline offers vital links to Singapore and Bangkok, and maintains a connection to Europe via Paris. It also serves island neighbors, including flights to Port Vila and Papeete, facilitating easy island-hopping adventures.

A standout feature of Air Calin is its modernized fleet, consisting primarily of Airbus A330neo and A320neo aircraft. These state-of-the-art planes are designed to reduce environmental impact while enhancing passenger comfort with quieter cabins and advanced in-flight entertainment systems. The interiors often feature designs inspired by the colors of the New Caledonian lagoon and local vegetation, creating a relaxing ambiance from takeoff to landing.

Safety is a paramount core value for the company. Air Calin adheres to strict international safety regulations and holds IOSA certification (IATA Operational Safety Audit), ensuring its operations meet the highest global standards. With a strong track record and a commitment to service excellence, the airline continues to be the preferred choice for travelers visiting the Heart of the Pacific.

Contacting Air Calin in the United Arab Emirates

As Air Calin does not currently operate direct flights to the United Arab Emirates or maintain a dedicated local office in the region, travelers in the UAE are advised to use the airline's international digital channels for support. For inquiries regarding bookings, flight schedules, or connections with partner airlines (such as Air France or Singapore Airlines) departing from Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the most efficient way to get assistance is through the official website or by contacting the global headquarters in New Caledonia.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight information, online check-in, and managing reservations, please visit the official global website:

• Official Website: www.aircalin.com

Contact Information

Since there is no local customer service center in the UAE, please refer to the international contact details below. English-speaking agents are available at the headquarters.

• Customer Service (Headquarters): +687 26 55 00 (International call rates apply)
• Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (New Caledonia Time, GMT+11). Note: The UAE is 7 hours behind New Caledonia.
• Ticket Booking: Recommended via the official website or your local travel agency in the UAE.
• Online Support: A "Contact Us" form is available on the official website for non-urgent inquiries.
• Mobile App: Available as Aircalin on the App Store and Google Play.

Social Media Connections

For quick updates, travel inspiration, or to send a direct message for general queries, you can follow Air Calin on their official social media platforms:

• Facebook: facebook.com/aircalin
• Instagram: instagram.com/aircalin
• Twitter / X: twitter.com/aircalin
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/aircalin

Local Presence in the UAE

• Local Offices: Currently, Air Calin does not have a physical office or a dedicated General Sales Agent (GSA) counter in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
• Airport Desks: There are no dedicated Air Calin check-in desks at UAE airports. If you are traveling on a codeshare flight (e.g., with Air France, Etihad, or Emirates) that connects to an Air Calin service, please approach the operating airline's desk for assistance at the airport.

Emergency & Support

For urgent matters regarding existing bookings made through a partner airline or a travel agency in the UAE, it is recommended to contact your booking provider directly for 24/7 assistance. If you booked directly with Air Calin, please use the headquarters phone number listed above during their business hours.

Baggage Information

Air Calin is known for its generous baggage policy, designed to accommodate the needs of travelers exploring the Pacific Islands, whether they are carrying light beachwear or heavy diving gear. The airline generally follows the "Piece Concept," simplifying the rules for passengers flying to destinations like Nouméa, Sydney, or Paris.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers are entitled to bring one main piece of carry-on luggage and one personal accessory (such as a handbag, laptop case, or camera bag) into the cabin. The maximum dimensions for the main carry-on bag are 55 x 35 x 25 cm (including pockets, wheels, and handles).

• Economy Class:
  • Regional Network (e.g., flights to Brisbane, Auckland, or Port Vila): 1 bag up to 7 kg.
  • Long-Haul Network (e.g., flights to Singapore, Bangkok, or Papeete): 1 bag up to 12 kg.
• Premium Economy: 1 bag up to 12 kg on applicable routes.
• Business Hibiscus Class:
  • Regional Network: 1 bag up to 12 kg.
  • Long-Haul Network: 2 bags with a combined weight of up to 18 kg.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends on your travel class and route. The standard maximum dimension for any checked bag is 158 cm (Length + Width + Height). Baggage weighing more than 32 kg will not be accepted and must be shipped as cargo.

Note: Specific weight-based rules may apply on certain regional routes connecting to smaller islands (e.g., Wallis and Futuna). Always check your ticket for the exact allowance.

Sports Equipment Allowance

Air Calin offers a particularly traveler-friendly benefit for sports enthusiasts. On flights operated by Air Calin, passengers are often entitled to one additional piece of baggage (up to 23 kg) free of charge for specific sports equipment. This is perfect for adventurers heading to the lagoons of New Caledonia.

Eligible equipment includes:

• Scuba diving gear (tanks must be empty and open)
• Golf bags
• Surfboards, kiteboards, and windsurfing boards (max length 3 meters)
• Bicycles (must be properly packed with handlebars turned)
• Fishing and hunting equipment

You must inform the airline at least 2 working days before departure to reserve space for large sports items.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you need to bring more than your free allowance, you can purchase extra baggage. It is highly recommended to pay for excess baggage online (via the "My Booking" section on the official website) up to 30 hours before your flight. Prepaid online rates are typically 20-25% cheaper than the fees charged at the airport check-in counter.

Fees vary based on your destination zone (e.g., Pacific, Asia, Europe). Overweight items (between 23 kg and 32 kg) and oversized items will incur additional surcharges payable only at the airport.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, the following restrictions apply:

• Lithium Batteries: Spare batteries and power banks must be carried in your cabin baggage only. They are strictly prohibited in checked luggage.
• E-Cigarettes: Must be kept on your person or in cabin baggage. Note that strictly prohibitive laws regarding e-cigarettes apply in some destinations like Singapore and Thailand.
• Self-Balancing Devices: Hoverboards, electric skateboards, and similar lithium-powered devices are totally forbidden on all Air Calin flights (both cabin and hold).
• Liquids (Cabin): On international flights, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a single transparent, resealable plastic bag (max 1 liter).

Tips for Packing Efficiently

• Label Everything: Attach a sturdy luggage tag with your name, mobile number, and email to the outside and inside of your bags.
• Protect Fragile Items: Wrap breakables in soft clothing and place them in the center of your suitcase.
• Medication: Always carry essential medication and prescriptions in your carry-on bag in case of unexpected delays.
• Check Connections: If your itinerary involves partner airlines (e.g., Qantas or Air France), the baggage rules of the operating carrier for the longest leg of your journey usually apply.

Pet Travel Policy

Air Calin understands that pets are part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. Whether you are relocating or taking a long vacation, the airline permits the transport of dogs and cats on most of its flights, subject to strict safety and biosecurity regulations. Due to the unique ecological status of Nouméa and the surrounding islands, passengers are strongly advised to plan well in advance, as entry requirements for New Caledonia differ significantly from standard international travel.

Transport Options

Depending on your pet's size, weight, and the destination, there are three ways to travel with your animal. Please note that on flights to specific destinations like Sydney or Auckland, local government regulations may mandate that pets travel strictly as cargo.

In the Cabin (Carry-On)

Small pets can join you in the cabin, allowing you to keep them close throughout the flight. This option is generally available for flights departing from Nouméa to destinations where local laws permit.

• Allowed Animals: Dogs and cats only.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Carrier Dimensions: The bag must not exceed 43 x 30 x 24 cm.
• Carrier Type: A soft-sided, approved travel bag is recommended as it must fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
• Limit: One pet per passenger. The animal must remain inside the closed bag for the entire duration of the flight.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

For animals that exceed the cabin weight limit, traveling in the air-conditioned cargo hold is the standard solution. This area is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure your pet's safety.

• Weight Limit: Animals weighing over 8 kg and typically up to 75 kg (animal + crate) travel in the hold.
• Container Requirements: You must provide an IATA-approved rigid plastic crate (fiberglass or hard plastic). Wire mesh or wooden cages are not accepted.
• Safety Features: The two halves of the crate must be bolted together (not just clipped), and the door must have a central locking mechanism securely attached at all four corners.
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally inside the crate.
• Check-in: You will need to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure to complete the necessary formalities.

As Air Cargo (Freight)

In certain situations, your pet cannot travel as checked baggage and must be booked as freight through the cargo department.

• When Required: For very large animals (combined weight over 75 kg), unaccompanied pets, or travel to countries with strict biosecurity laws (such as Australia or New Zealand).
• Importing to New Caledonia: Animals entering New Caledonia usually must travel as cargo to facilitate mandatory quarantine procedures.
• Booking: This must be arranged separately through Air Calin Cargo or a specialized freight forwarder.

Required Documentation

International travel with pets requires precise paperwork. Failure to present these documents may result in the animal being denied boarding.

• Veterinary Passport: An up-to-date booklet recording the animal's medical history.
• Health Certificate: A certificate of good health issued by a licensed veterinarian, typically dated within a few days of the flight.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of all required vaccines, specifically a valid anti-rabies vaccination.
• Microchip Identification: The animal must be identified by an electronic microchip or a readable tattoo.
• Import Permits: Specific permits required by the destination country (e.g., biosecurity clearance for arrival in Nouméa or Singapore).

Service Costs

Traveling with a pet involves an additional fee, which is not included in your standard baggage allowance. Prices are subject to change based on the route and exchange rates.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €70 to €100 per flight leg (varies by zone).
• Hold Fee (Checked Baggage): Fees typically range from €150 to €300 depending on the destination and the size of the crate.
• Cargo Rates: Calculated based on the volume and weight of the crate; quotes must be obtained directly from the freight department.
• Note: Fees are usually payable at the airport check-in counter unless booked as cargo.

Preparation Tips

To ensure a smooth journey for your furry companion, consider these preparation steps:

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to their travel crate several days or weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 to 6 hours before departure to avoid airsickness. Do not feed them immediately before flying.
• Hydration: Attach a small empty water dish to the inside of the crate door; staff can fill it if needed during long delays, though usually, spills are avoided.
• Comfort Item: Place a familiar blanket or an absorbent pad inside the crate to reduce stress and keep the animal clean.
• No Sedatives: It is generally recommended not to sedate animals as it can affect their breathing and blood pressure at high altitudes. Consult your vet.

Restrictions

For safety and regulatory reasons, Air Calin enforces specific restrictions:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed dogs and cats (such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, or Persian cats) are often restricted or prohibited from travel in the cargo hold due to potential respiratory difficulties.
• Dangerous Dogs: Categories of attack dogs or guard dogs (e.g., certain Pitbull or Mastiff types) may be strictly prohibited.
• Age Limit: Puppies and kittens must usually be at least 10 to 12 weeks old and weaned.
• Service Animals: Guide dogs for passengers with disabilities are generally accepted in the cabin free of charge, provided notice is given 48 hours in advance.

Important: Airline policies and government veterinary regulations can change frequently. You are strongly encouraged to contact Air Calin's reservations department and the relevant embassy or biosecurity authority of your destination at the time of booking to confirm eligibility.

Flying Blue Loyalty Program

Air Calin shares its loyalty program, Flying Blue, with major carriers like Air France and KLM, offering passengers a globally recognized avenue to earn and spend rewards. This partnership allows travelers to accumulate miles not just on flights to Nouméa, but on a vast network of airlines worldwide. Whether you are a frequent business flyer or planning a dream holiday, the program is designed to add value to every journey through a simple and rewarding tier system.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

• Explorer: The entry-level status where members start earning Miles and Experience Points (XP) immediately upon enrollment.
• Silver: Unlocks priority check-in, priority boarding, and an additional baggage allowance on eligible flights.
• Gold: Grants access to airport lounges worldwide for the member and a guest, along with SkyPriority services.
• Platinum: The premier tier offering the highest level of priority, dedicated support lines, and exclusive reward ticket availability.

Earning Miles and Points

• Flights: Earn Miles based on the distance flown and booking class on Air Calin and partner airlines like Air France.
• Experience Points (XP): Accumulate XP on eligible flights to progress to the next membership status level.
• Hotel Partners: Collect Miles when booking stays with global chains such as Accor, Marriott, and Hilton.
• Car Rentals: Earn rewards when renting vehicles from major providers like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar.
• Daily Spending: Accumulate Miles through everyday purchases using Flying Blue co-branded credit cards (where available).

Redeeming Your Miles

• Award Flights: Use Miles to book tickets to destinations like Sydney, Singapore, or Paris.
• Cabin Upgrades: Treat yourself to more comfort by using Miles to upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Hibiscus class.
• Travel Extras: Pay for additional baggage, special seat selection, or lounge access with your balance.
• Lifestyle Rewards: Redeem Miles for hotel nights, car rentals, or products from the online Flying Blue Store.

Strategic Partnerships

• Program Alliance: Air Calin utilizes the Flying Blue program, aligning it closely with the SkyTeam alliance network.
• Key Airline Partners: Members can earn and redeem Miles seamlessly with Air France, KLM, and other Flying Blue partners.
• Regional Partners: Specific bilateral agreements allow for benefits with airlines like Qantas and Air New Zealand on select routes.

How to Join

Joining Flying Blue is completely free and can be done in minutes. Simply register via the official Air Calin website or the Flying Blue portal to receive your digital membership card and start earning on your very next flight.

Onboard Experience and Service Classes

Flying with Air Calin is an immersion into the warm hospitality of the Pacific before you even reach your destination. The airline prides itself on offering a travel experience that blends French elegance with the relaxed spirit of the islands. With a modern fleet primarily composed of Airbus A330neo and A320neo aircraft, passengers can expect quieter cabins, state-of-the-art lighting designed to reduce jet lag, and contemporary seating across all cabin classes.

Business Hibiscus Class

While Air Calin does not operate a traditional First Class, its Business Hibiscus Class serves as its premier offering, rivaling the comfort of top-tier international carriers. Designed for travelers seeking privacy and rest, this cabin on the A330neo long-haul flights features a spacious 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring direct aisle access for every passenger.

• The Seat: A sophisticated seat that transforms into a fully flat bed (usually nearly 2 meters long), equipped with a memory foam mattress, a hypoallergenic pillow, and a soft duvet for a restful sleep.
• Amenities: Passengers receive a high-quality comfort kit featuring cosmetics, noise-canceling headphones, and ample storage space for personal items.
• Service: Enjoy priority check-in, increased baggage allowance, and access to partner airport lounges. Upon boarding, you are welcomed with a signature glass of champagne or a tropical juice.

Premium Economy Class

Available on long-haul routes—such as those connecting Nouméa with Singapore or Paris—the Premium Economy cabin offers a perfect middle ground for travelers desiring extra space without the price tag of Business Class.

• Comfort: Located in a dedicated, intimate cabin section, these wide seats offer generous legroom, greater recline, and an adjustable footrest.
• Extras: Passengers enjoy a welcome drink, a dedicated comfort amenity kit, and premium meal service similar to Business Class.
• Technology: Each seat is equipped with a large HD touchscreen, USB ports, and a personal power outlet to keep devices charged.

Economy Class

Air Calin’s Economy Class is designed to make even the longest journeys to the Pacific comfortable and enjoyable. The cabin features modern, ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests and ample legroom tailored for long-haul travel.

• Configuration: On the A330neo, the 2-4-2 layout is favored by couples and families, while the A320neo used for regional flights to cities like Brisbane or Auckland typically features a 3-3 layout.
• In-Flight Perks: Each passenger receives a pillow, blanket, and an amenity kit on long flights. USB sockets are available at every seat to keep your electronics powered.

Dining and Beverages

The culinary experience onboard reflects the airline's dual heritage, offering a fusion of French gastronomy and fresh Pacific flavors. Whether flying to Bangkok or Sydney, meals are complimentary across all classes.

• Gourmet Meals: Menus often feature local Caledonian products, such as venison, shrimp, or tropical fruits, paired with French wines and cheeses. Business Class passengers enjoy a multi-course dining experience served on porcelain tableware.
• Special Dietary Needs: The airline caters to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, diabetic, and religious meals (Muslim, Hindu, etc.). These must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
• Beverages: A wide selection of soft drinks, juices, coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages (wines, beers, and spirits) is available throughout the flight at no extra cost.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Boredom is not an option thanks to the advanced In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) system available on individual HD touchscreens at every seat.

• Content: The system offers a rich library of the latest Hollywood blockbusters, French cinema, TV series, documentaries about New Caledonia, games, and music albums.
• Wi-Fi Onboard: On equipped A330neo aircraft, Air Calin offers Wi-Fi packages ranging from messaging plans (for apps like WhatsApp or Messenger) to surf packages for browsing the web during your flight.
• Kids' Zone: Young travelers have their own dedicated section in the entertainment system featuring cartoons, animated movies, and games suitable for all ages.

Special Services

Air Calin is committed to making travel accessible and stress-free for all passengers, providing specialized assistance where needed.

• Families and Children: Families traveling with infants can request bassinets (subject to availability and weight limits) on long-haul flights. Kids receive special "Hibiscus" activity kits containing games and coloring books to keep them entertained.
• Unaccompanied Minors (UM): A dedicated escort service is available for children traveling alone. From check-in to handing them over to the designated guardian at the destination—be it Port Vila or Papeete—staff ensure their safety and comfort.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline provides full assistance for passengers requiring wheelchairs or special medical attention. Requests for wheelchair service or onboard assistance should be made at the time of booking or at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a smooth airport experience.

Destinations and Route Network

Air Calin serves as the primary gateway to New Caledonia, operating from its main hub in Nouméa. While there are no direct flights from the United Arab Emirates, the airline's network is strategically designed to connect with major international transit points in Asia and Australia. This allows travelers from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to easily reach the "Heart of the Pacific" through partner airlines before experiencing the warm hospitality of Air Calin.

International Connections: Asia & Europe

For travelers originating from the UAE and Europe, the most convenient access points to the Air Calin network are through its key Asian hubs. The airline operates frequent flights connecting Nouméa with dynamic cities, facilitating smooth stopovers:

• Singapore: A major connecting point, with regular service to Singapore.
• Thailand: Flights to Bangkok provide another vital link for international passengers.
• France: Maintaining a strong connection with the mainland, the airline serves Paris, often routing via its Asian gateways.

Australia and New Zealand

The airline offers extensive connectivity to its closest neighbors in Oceania, making it easy to combine a trip to New Caledonia with a visit to Australia or New Zealand. Regular services include:

• Australia: Direct flights to both Brisbane and Sydney.
• New Zealand: Frequent connections to Auckland.

Regional Pacific Network

Beyond its long-haul routes, Air Calin is essential for regional travel, offering island-hopping opportunities to some of the most beautiful destinations in the South Pacific. The network includes flights to:

• Vanuatu: Connecting the archipelago to Port Vila.
• French Polynesia: linking to Papeete in Tahiti.
• Fiji: Services to Nadi, a central hub for Pacific travel.
• Wallis and Futuna: Providing a lifeline link to Mata Utu.

Securing the best experience with Air Calin begins long before you head to the airport. To find the most attractive fares to Nouméa, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance. For long-haul routes, such as those connecting from Paris or Singapore, aim to finalize your reservation at least three months prior to your travel date. Flexibility with your schedule can also be a money-saver; flying mid-week is often cheaper than departing on a Friday or Sunday.

Keep a close watch for seasonal promotions and special offers, particularly if you are flying from nearby regional hubs like Brisbane, Sydney, or Auckland. Signing up for the airline's newsletter or monitoring their official social media channels are excellent ways to catch flash sales as soon as they are released. These deals can significantly reduce the cost of your island getaway.

To streamline your journey, take advantage of the online check-in feature. This service typically opens 30 hours before departure, allowing you to avoid long queues at the airport. During this process, you can choose your preferred seat. Whether you want a window view of the Pacific Ocean upon approach to Port Vila or an aisle seat for easy access on the flight from Bangkok, selecting your spot early is highly recommended for maximum comfort.

Enhance your travel management by downloading the airline's mobile app. It serves as a convenient travel companion, letting you store your boarding passes digitally, track your flight status in real-time, and manage booking details on the go. This is especially useful for multi-leg journeys, such as connecting through Papeete.

Finally, considering comprehensive travel insurance is a crucial step for any international trip. Given the distances involved in reaching New Caledonia, having coverage for flight cancellations, delays, or lost luggage provides essential peace of mind. Ensure your policy covers all destinations on your itinerary to enjoy a worry-free vacation.

History and Development

The story of Air Calin began in 1983, established under the name Air Calédonie International. The airline was founded with a clear and vital mission: to ensure the autonomy of New Caledonia's air transport and to develop tourism by connecting the archipelago directly to the world. Prior to its creation, international travel from the territory relied heavily on foreign carriers. The launch of the airline marked a significant step towards economic independence and opened a new chapter for the region, positioning Nouméa as a growing hub in the South Pacific.

In its early years, the company focused on establishing strong regional connections. Operations initially began with a leased aircraft, but the airline quickly moved to solidify its presence in Oceania. By the late 1980s and early 1990s, it had successfully inaugurated regular routes to key neighboring cities, including Brisbane and Sydney in Australia. These routes became essential lifelines for business and leisure travelers alike. Concurrently, the airline expanded eastward, launching services to Auckland, thereby cementing a sturdy triangular network between New Caledonia, Australia, and New Zealand.

A major turning point in the airline's history was the strategic decision to renew and expand its fleet with Airbus aircraft in the early 2000s. The introduction of the Airbus A330 allowed Air Calin to extend its reach beyond the immediate Pacific region and into Asia. This expansion was critical for maintaining the "continuity of territory" link with Paris. By establishing frequent flights to Asian gateways such as Bangkok and more recently Singapore, the airline offered passengers seamless transit options to Europe, significantly reducing travel time and improving comfort for long-haul journeys.

Throughout its development, Air Calin has also remained dedicated to connecting the Pacific Islands. The airline fosters cultural and economic exchanges within the region by operating regular flights to Port Vila in Vanuatu and Papeete in French Polynesia. It also provides a vital service to the French territory of Wallis and Futuna, flying to Mata Utu, which relies on these connections for essential supplies and passenger transport. These routes underscore the airline's role not just as a commercial entity, but as a bridge between the diverse island communities of the Pacific.

In recent years, Air Calin has undergone a comprehensive modernization program to enhance efficiency and environmental performance. In 2019, the airline completed a significant fleet renewal, replacing its older aircraft with state-of-the-art Airbus A330neo and A320neo models. This upgrade represented a major milestone in innovation, offering quieter cabins, modern in-flight entertainment, and reduced fuel consumption. Today, the airline continues to evolve, focusing on sustainable growth and maintaining high service standards while serving as the primary ambassador for New Caledonia on the global stage.