Air Tahiti

Flying with Air Tahiti offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the South Pacific from above. Far more than just a transportation provider, this airline serves as the vital lifeline connecting the dispersed archipelagos of French Polynesia. From the moment passengers board, they are immersed in the warm and welcoming spirit of the islands, making the journey itself a memorable part of the Polynesian adventure.

Operating from its base on the main island, the carrier specializes in navigating the specific geography of the region, linking high volcanic islands with remote coral atolls. Whether you are heading to a luxury resort or an off-the-beaten-path guesthouse, Air Tahiti ensures reliable connections across a maritime territory as vast as Western Europe.

A History of Connection
While the airline officially began operations under its current brand in 1987, its roots trace back to the early 1950s with seaplane services that revolutionized island travel. Over the decades, it has evolved into a modern carrier dedicated to reducing the isolation of remote communities. The airline's mission goes beyond commerce; it focuses on maintaining social and economic ties between the capital and the outer islands, ensuring that even the most distant populations remain connected.

Modern Fleet and Operations
Air Tahiti operates a fleet tailored specifically to the region's constraints, consisting primarily of ATR 72 and ATR 42 aircraft. These turboprops are perfectly suited for short runways found on many coral atolls and offer a lower carbon footprint compared to jets on short-haul routes. The airline is renowned for its pilots' expertise in visual flight rules and navigating oceanic weather patterns, maintaining a strong safety record in a challenging maritime environment.

The Air Tahiti Experience
One of the airline's most popular offerings for tourists is its "Air Passes," which allow travelers to visit multiple islands, such as Bora Bora and Raiatea, at a competitive rate. The cabin atmosphere reflects the local culture, often featuring island music and attentive service. Additionally, the airline acknowledges the needs of visitors by offering specific baggage allowances for diving equipment, catering to the many enthusiasts who come to explore the underwater wonders of the Pacific.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates planning their inter-island adventures in French Polynesia, connecting with Air Tahiti is primarily done through digital channels or direct international communication. As a regional carrier specialized in domestic flights within the islands, the airline does not maintain a physical office or local call center in the UAE. Support is centralized at their headquarters in Papeete.

Official Website

The most efficient way to book flights, purchase air passes, and manage reservations is through the airline's English-language website: www.airtahiti.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.airtahiti.com
• Customer Service (International): +689 40 86 42 42
  Please note: This is a direct line to French Polynesia. International calling charges from the UAE will apply, and you should consider the time difference (Tahiti is typically 14 hours behind the UAE).
• Ticket Booking: We recommend booking directly online or consulting a UAE-based travel agency that can issue tickets on your behalf.
• Email: reservation@airtahiti.pf

Social Media

Stay updated on flight schedules and travel inspiration through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/airtahitiofficial
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/airtahiti_official
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AirTahiti

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Note: Air Tahiti acts solely as a domestic carrier within French Polynesia and does not operate flights to or from the Middle East.

• Office Addresses: There are currently no local commercial offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates.
• Airport Desks: No service desks are available at UAE airports.
• Headquarters Address (for reference): Air Tahiti, Tahiti - Faa'a International Airport, BP 314 - 98713 Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia.

Emergency & Support

There is no dedicated 24/7 support line for the UAE market. For urgent inquiries regarding your inter-island itinerary, it is best to:

• Send an email to the reservation team marked as "URGENT".
• Call the main headquarters line during their operating hours (typically Mon-Fri 07:00–17:00, Sat 08:00–12:00 Tahiti time).

Understanding the Baggage Rules

Traveling with Air Tahiti involves flying on smaller regional aircraft, primarily ATR turboprops, which have stricter weight and balance limitations than large international jets. Whether you are hopping from Papeete to Bora Bora or venturing further afield to Avarua, understanding these allowances is crucial for a smooth journey. The airline enforces these rules strictly to ensure flight safety on the short runways typical of the islands.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Due to limited overhead bin space, the carry-on allowance is more restricted than what travelers might be used to on long-haul flights. Each passenger is permitted one piece of cabin baggage.

• Maximum Weight: 5 kg (approx. 11 lbs).
• Maximum Dimensions: 45 x 35 x 20 cm (17 x 13 x 7 in).
• Personal Items: Your handbag, laptop, camera bag, or duty-free purchases must fit within this single piece or the 5 kg total weight limit.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends on the fare class you have purchased. It is essential to check your specific ticket, as "Promo" fares often have lighter limits than standard fares or Air Passes.

• Light / Promo Fares (Z, S classes): Typically 10 kg (22 lbs).
• Standard Fares (Y class) & Air Passes: Typically 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Flexible / Premium Fares: Up to 46 kg (100 lbs) in some specific cases.
• Dimensions: The total sum of length + width + height should not exceed 150 cm (59 in).
• Max Weight Per Bag: Regardless of your total allowance, no single bag should weigh more than 25 kg (55 lbs) to ensure the safety of baggage handlers.

Special Allowance for Divers

Recognizing that French Polynesia is a world-class diving destination, Air Tahiti offers a special perk for scuba divers. If you present a valid diver's certification at check-in, you are generally granted an additional 5 kg allowance specifically for your diving equipment. This applies to travelers on most fares, but it is always best to confirm this at the time of booking.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight allowance, excess baggage fees will apply and are charged per kilogram. Payment is usually required at the check-in counter in the local currency (CFP Francs). On flights with high passenger loads—common on popular routes like Papeete to Raiatea or Huahine—excess baggage may physically not fit on the aircraft and could be sent on a later flight.

Special Items: Sports and Music

Sports Equipment: Surfboards, kitesurfing gear, and bodyboards can be transported but are subject to size restrictions (usually a maximum length of 180 cm or 200 cm depending on the aircraft type) and often incur a fixed fee. Space for large sports items is limited, so it is recommended to inform the airline in advance.

Musical Instruments: Small instruments like ukuleles can be carried as cabin baggage if they fit within the dimensions (45 x 35 x 20 cm). Larger instruments must be checked in as hold luggage and should be packed in hard, protective cases.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety regulations are strictly enforced. The following items are generally prohibited in checked luggage and must be carried in the cabin or left behind:

• Lithium Batteries: Spare batteries and power banks must be in your carry-on.
• E-Cigarettes: Must be carried on your person or in the cabin, not checked in.
• Perishables: Fresh food items may have specific restrictions to protect local island ecosystems.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your island-hopping experience easier, consider using soft-sided duffel bags rather than large hard-shell suitcases. Soft bags are easier to stack in the cargo holds of smaller planes. If you are connecting from an international flight with a generous baggage allowance, plan ahead by storing excess luggage at the airport in Tahiti or your main hotel if you plan to return there, taking only what you need for your island excursions.

Traveling with Pets on Air Tahiti

Flying with your furry companion across the islands requires careful planning due to the specific nature of Air Tahiti's fleet. The airline generally welcomes pets, ensuring they can join you on your journey through the archipelago, provided all safety and comfort regulations are met to suit the smaller regional aircraft.

Transport Options

Small pets are welcome in the cabin, allowing them to stay close to you throughout the flight. This option is ideal for smaller animals that are comfortable in confined spaces.

• Carrier dimensions: The bag must not exceed 45 x 35 x 20 cm to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum pet weight: The total weight of the animal and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg (approximately 17 lbs).
• Allowed pet types: Primarily dogs and cats, though small mammals like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters may be accepted.
• Limit per passenger: Only one pet container is permitted per passenger.
• Conditions: The animal must remain inside the closed carrier for the entire duration of the flight.

Animals exceeding the cabin weight limit or size restrictions travel in the aircraft's hold. While separated from passengers, the hold on ATR aircraft is pressurized and ventilated.

• Container requirements: You must provide an IATA-approved rigid plastic or fiberglass crate (fiberglass is mandatory for animals weighing over 40 kg). Wire mesh cages are strictly prohibited.
• Weight and size limits: Generally accepted for animals weighing up to 25 kg (55 lbs). Heavier animals may need to be processed as cargo.
• Snub-nosed (Brachycephalic) animals: Unlike many other airlines that ban them, Air Tahiti accepts snub-nosed breeds (such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, and Persian cats) in the hold. However, for their safety and respiratory comfort, the travel crate must be one size larger than the standard size normally required for the animal.
• Safety features: The crate must have a secure locking mechanism and be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Documentation: A waiver of responsibility must often be signed at the check-in counter.

For very large dogs, heavy kennels, or unaccompanied pets, travel must be arranged through the freight department.

• When required: If the combined weight of the pet and kennel exceeds the standard checked baggage limit (typically over 25 kg or 50 kg depending on the route) or if the cage dimensions do not fit through the hold door.
• Special requirements: Requires a sturdy, bolted kennel (fiberglass or hard plastic) and early drop-off at the freight depot.
• Booking procedure: Must be arranged separately from your passenger ticket by contacting the Air Tahiti Fret service in Papeete.

Required Documentation

To ensure a smooth departure, you must present valid documents at check-in. Failure to provide these may result in transport refusal.

• Veterinary Passport: An up-to-date health book (carnet de santé).
• Health Certificate: A certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian just before travel (typically less than 4 days prior).
• Vaccinations: Proof of current vaccinations, specifically anti-rabies documentation.
• International Certificates: If you are connecting from an international flight, all sanitary import requirements for French Polynesia must be cleared before the domestic leg.

Service Costs

Traveling with pets is subject to specific fees which are separate from your standard baggage allowance.

• In-cabin fee: Usually charged as a fixed flat rate per flight segment.
• Cargo hold fee: Often calculated based on the weight of the animal and cage, similar to excess baggage rates, or as a fixed fee depending on the destination.
• Price variation: Costs differ depending on whether you are flying within the Society Islands or to more distant archipelagos like the Marquesas.

Preparation Tips

Ensuring your pet is comfortable and compliant with regulations will reduce stress for both you and the animal.

• Check the carrier: Ensure your travel bag (soft-sided for cabin) or crate (hard shell for hold) meets all IATA standards well in advance.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal 4 to 6 hours before the flight to avoid motion sickness, but keep them hydrated.
• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to their travel crate days or weeks before the trip.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat or newspaper at the bottom of the cage; straw and hay are prohibited.

Restrictions

Certain animals and breeds are subject to strict limitations due to safety and health concerns.

• Aggressive dogs: Category 1 and 2 dogs (attack or guard dogs like Pitbulls/Mastiffs) are generally prohibited.
• Prohibited animals: Pregnant females, unweaned puppies/kittens, and wild animals are not accepted.
• Exceptions: Certified service animals assisting passengers with disabilities may travel in the cabin free of charge, provided prior notification is given.

Important: We strongly recommend contacting Air Tahiti directly or visiting their sales counters at least 72 hours before your flight to confirm space availability and current regulations, as animal transport rules are subject to change.

For frequent travelers exploring the islands of French Polynesia, Air Tahiti offers a dedicated loyalty program known as Kaveka. Named after the traditional star paths used by Polynesian navigators to guide their canoes across the ocean, the program is designed to reward passengers who regularly fly on the airline's domestic network. It provides members with opportunities to earn points that can be turned into valuable travel benefits, making island hopping both more rewarding and convenient.

Membership Tiers

The Kaveka program features three distinct levels of membership, each named using Tahitian terminology that reflects the status and progression of the traveler.

• Kaveka (Entry Level): The standard tier assigned immediately upon enrollment. Members start earning "Award Points" (for redemption) and "Status Points" (for tier progression) from their very first eligible flight.
• Kaveka Tea (Intermediate): Achieved after accumulating a specific number of Status Points. This tier, named after the Tahitian word for "white" or "light," acknowledges loyal customers with enhanced recognition and access to specific partner offers.
• Kaveka Ura (Elite): The highest tier in the program ("Ura" signifies "red," a color traditionally associated with royalty and prestige in Polynesia). Members at this level enjoy the most exclusive privileges, including higher priority on waitlists and premium partner benefits.

Earning Points

Members accumulate points primarily through flying, with a dual-tracking system designed to separate redeemable currency from status progression.

• Flights: Points are earned on eligible scheduled flights operated by Air Tahiti. The number of points accrued depends on the destination and the fare class purchased.
• Status vs. Award Points: "Status Points" count strictly toward reaching the Tea and Ura tiers, while "Award Points" are the currency used for redeeming gifts and services.
• Validity: Points remain valid as long as there is regular activity on the account, encouraging members to fly consistently within the network.

Redeeming Points

The Kaveka program focuses on practical rewards that are highly valuable for travel within the archipelago.

• Award Flights: Points can be exchanged for free tickets (taxes excluded) on Air Tahiti's network, allowing members to explore new islands or revisit favorites like Papeete or Bora Bora.
• Excess Baggage: One of the most popular redemption options is the "Baggage Booklet" (Carnet Bagages), allowing members to pay for extra luggage weight with points—a crucial benefit for divers and travelers with heavy gear.
• Partner Rewards: Points or status can often unlock discounts and special offers with local partners, including hotels and car rental agencies across the islands.

Alliance Membership

Air Tahiti (VT) is an independent regional carrier and is not a member of major global airline alliances such as Star Alliance, oneworld, or SkyTeam. The Kaveka program is a standalone loyalty scheme specifically for domestic travel within French Polynesia. While the airline partners with international carriers for baggage interlining, Kaveka points are earned and redeemed exclusively on Air Tahiti's own network.

How to Join

Joining the Kaveka program is free and open to individual travelers aged 2 years and older. Enrollment can be completed easily via the official website. Travelers are encouraged to sign up before their trip to ensure all domestic flight segments are credited to their account.

Flying with Air Tahiti is a distinct experience that differs significantly from international long-haul travel. Designed for short, scenic hops between islands, the service focuses on efficiency, hospitality, and providing the best possible views of the stunning lagoons below. As a regional carrier operating a fleet of turboprops, the onboard atmosphere is casual and relaxed, reflecting the "Mana" or spirit of the Polynesian islands.

Cabin Class and Seating

Air Tahiti operates a single-class configuration across its entire fleet. There are no Business or First Class cabins on these domestic inter-island flights. Every passenger travels in Economy Class, enjoying the same level of service and comfort.

• Configuration: The ATR aircraft feature a 2-2 seating layout. This means every seat is either a window or an aisle seat, with no middle seats, ensuring easier access and better views for everyone.
• Seating Policy: Unique to many of these island flights, boarding often follows an "open seating" policy (free seating). Passengers typically choose their seats upon boarding on a first-come, first-served basis. It is widely recommended to sit on the left side or right side depending on the specific route to get the best aerial views of the atolls, so boarding early can be an advantage.
• Comfort: The seats are designed for short regional flights, offering standard pitch and width suitable for journeys that rarely exceed one hour.

In-Flight Services and Catering

Given the short duration of most flights—often ranging from 15 to 45 minutes—meal services are light and refreshing. While there are no hot meals served, the airline is famous for its warm hospitality.

• Beverages: On most flights, passengers are treated to a complimentary beverage service. This typically includes water, coffee, or the local favorite: Rotui fruit juice (often pineapple or mango), produced locally on the island of Moorea.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is generally not served on these domestic routes.

Entertainment and Amenities

Air Tahiti does not offer seatback screens or Wi-Fi connectivity, as the flights are brief and the aircraft are optimized for regional operations. Instead, the airline encourages passengers to disconnect and enjoy the surroundings.

• The View: The primary entertainment is undoubtedly the scenery. Flying at a lower altitude than international jets allows for breathtaking views of coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, and volcanic peaks.
• Reading Material: The in-flight magazine, Rea, is available in seat pockets. It features articles on Polynesian culture, local events, and travel tips, available in both French and English.

Special Services

The airline is well-equipped to assist passengers with specific needs, ensuring accessible travel to even the remote islands.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Although boarding is done via the tarmac using stairs, airports in main hubs like Papeete and popular destinations are equipped with special lifting chairs (S-MAX) or ramps to assist passengers who cannot climb stairs. It is essential to request this assistance at least 48 hours in advance.
• Families and Children: Infants (under 2 years) travel on a parent's lap. For families traveling to destinations like Avarua or across the Society Islands, priority boarding is often available to help settle children before general boarding begins.
• Unaccompanied Minors (UM): The airline offers a dedicated service for children traveling alone, ensuring they are escorted and supervised from check-in until they are handed over to a designated guardian at their destination.

As the primary domestic carrier of French Polynesia, Air Tahiti operates an extensive network connecting the main island to dozens of destinations across the archipelago. Using its central hub in Papeete, the airline provides essential links to both popular tourist lagoons and remote islands, facilitating seamless travel throughout the region.

Booking a flight with Air Tahiti is the first step toward an unforgettable island-hopping adventure in the South Pacific. Since most international travelers arrive at the main hub in Papeete before connecting to other islands, securing your domestic transfers in advance is highly recommended. To get the best availability and fares, aim to book your tickets at least 2 to 3 months prior to your trip, especially if you plan to travel during the peak season (June to October) or major holidays.

One of the best ways to save money while seeing more destinations is to look for Multi-Island Tours or "Air Passes." Instead of purchasing individual point-to-point tickets—for example, from Papeete to Bora Bora and then separately to Raiatea—these passes allow you to visit multiple islands for a fixed rate. This is often much more economical for travelers planning to visit several locations like Huahine, Rangiroa, or even Avarua in the Cook Islands.

To streamline your airport experience, take advantage of the online check-in service, which typically opens about 30 hours before departure. This allows you to confirm your details and often select your seat in advance. However, please note that on some smaller aircraft used for short inter-island hops, seating might be "free seating" (first come, first served) upon boarding, so arriving at the gate early is a good strategy if you want a window seat for those spectacular aerial views of the lagoons.

When preparing for your flight, pay close attention to baggage allowances. Because Air Tahiti operates regional aircraft, carry-on and checked baggage limits can be stricter than international carriers. It is wise to purchase travel insurance that covers flight cancellations or delays, as tropical weather can occasionally impact schedules. Finally, checking the airline's mobile website or app frequently can keep you updated on real-time flight status and gate changes, ensuring a smooth journey across the archipelago.

Origins and Early Aviation
The history of aviation in French Polynesia dates back to the post-war era, long before the current blue and white livery took to the skies. The lineage of Air Tahiti began in 1953 with the founding of RAI (Réseau Aérien Interinsulaire). In these early years, the company operated seaplanes, such as the iconic Catalina and Short Sandringham flying boats, which connected the lagoons of the Society Islands with Papeete. This period was characterized by water landings, as very few islands had paved runways.

The Air Polynésie Era
By 1970, the development of airport infrastructure across the territory allowed for a major transformation. RAI was rebranded as Air Polynésie, shifting its operations from seaplanes to land-based aircraft. The airline introduced reliable turboprops like the Fokker F27 Friendship and the De Havilland Twin Otter. These aircraft played a crucial role in opening up remote atolls in the Tuamotu and Austral archipelagos, making travel faster and more consistent than maritime options.

Founding of Air Tahiti
The modern entity known today as Air Tahiti was officially established in 1986, commencing operations under this new brand in 1987. This restructuring marked a significant milestone in the region's development, driven by a desire to modernize the fleet and improve economic ties between the islands. The new company absorbed the operations of Air Polynésie and set out on an ambitious plan to standardize its fleet and increase flight frequencies to support both the local population and the growing tourism industry.

The ATR Revolution
A pivotal moment in the airline's history was the strategic decision to adopt Avions de Transport Régional (ATR) aircraft. Recognizing that jet engines were inefficient for short inter-island hops and that many coral runways were too short for larger planes, the carrier became an early and major customer for the ATR 42 and later the larger ATR 72. This transition allowed for greater passenger capacity and comfort while maintaining the ability to land on restricted island airstrips. Today, the airline operates one of the most active ATR fleets in the world.

Regional Expansion
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, the carrier expanded its network to cover a maritime area as large as Western Europe. It successfully connected all five archipelagos of French Polynesia: the Society, Tuamotu, Gambier, Austral, and Marquesas Islands. One of the significant route developments was the establishment of a regular international connection to the Cook Islands, linking Tahiti with Avarua (Rarotonga). This route remains a vital bridge between these two Polynesian nations.

Modern Innovations
In recent years, Air Tahiti has continued to innovate by renewing its fleet with the latest generation "600 series" ATR aircraft, which feature improved avionics and lighter cabins. The airline has also heavily invested in digitalizing its reservation systems to better serve international travelers. Despite the logistical challenges of operating in a saline, tropical environment, the company has maintained a strong focus on reliability, serving as the essential "umbilical cord" that keeps the dispersed island communities connected to the rest of the world.