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Temae Airport

About the Airport

Temae Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Temae Airport (MOZ) is the gateway to the fabulous island of Moorea in French Polynesia. Located on the northeast coast, it welcomes travelers with breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon and lush green mountains right upon landing. This small but cozy airport is a key transport hub connecting Moorea with the main island of Tahiti, from where most tourists arrive. The flight takes only 10-15 minutes, but the impressions last a lifetime, setting the tone for the entire holiday on this paradise island.

IATA Code MOZ
ICAO Code NTTM
City Moorea
Distance to center about 7–9 km to the main tourist zones (Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay)
Status domestic
Passengers per year 61,747 (in 2023)
Popular Airlines Air Tahiti, Air Moana
Schedule online board "Temae Airport"

The main feature of Temae Airport is its *intimate atmosphere* and simplicity. There are no huge terminals or the bustle of megacities here. All procedures are quick and conducted in a relaxed environment, allowing you to immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Polynesian hospitality. The runway is located right at the water's edge, making the views during takeoff and landing considered some of the most picturesque in the world. The airport mainly serves flights by Air Tahiti and Air Moana, which operate between Moorea and Papeete several times a day, providing convenient connections for tourists arriving on international flights.

Contact Information

Below you will find the main contact information for Temae Airport (MOZ), which will help you plan your trip to the island of Moorea and navigate upon arrival.

  • Official website: www.tahiti-aeroport.pf. Temae Airport is managed by Aéroports de Tahiti; you can find up-to-date information on flights and services on their website.
  • Information desk phone: +689 40 86 60 60. This is the contact number for the management company Aéroports de Tahiti, where you can get information about the airport's operations.
  • Airport address: Aéroport de Moorea, Temae, 98728 Moorea-Maiao, French Polynesia.
  • Email: A direct email for contacting the airport is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for all inquiries.
  • Social media: You can follow news from the management company Aéroports de Tahiti on their official pages on Facebook and Instagram.
  • Lost luggage information: If your luggage was lost or damaged during the flight, you must *immediately contact* your airline's Lost & Found service. For items left in the terminal building, please contact the airport information desk.
  • Passenger support contacts: For consultation and assistance directly at the airport, please contact the information desk or call the general information number.

How to Get to the Airport

Temae Airport (MOZ) is located on the northeast coast of the island of Moorea, making it easily accessible from major tourist areas. There are several ways to get there, but it is worth noting that the public transport system on the island is not well developed. The trip from most hotels and resorts to the airport usually takes from 15 to 40 minutes depending on your location.

The most popular and reliable way to get to the airport is by taxi or pre-booked transfer. Most hotels and guesthouses offer transfer services for their guests, which is the most convenient option. Taxis can be found at stands or called by phone, but it is recommended to arrange the trip in advance, especially if you have an early flight. Taxi fares can be quite high, so check the price before boarding.

Car rental is an excellent choice for those who value independence and plan to explore the island on their own. Several local and international rental agencies operate on Moorea. You can rent a car for the duration of your stay and return it directly at the airport before departure. Temae Airport has a parking lot where you can leave your car for a short or long term.

Technically, public transport on the island is represented by "Le Truck" buses. They run along the ring road, but their schedule is *not always predictable*, and they may not stop directly at the terminal. This option is suitable for travelers without large luggage and with plenty of time, but it is not recommended as the main way to catch a flight. There are no trains or metro on the island. For comfortable travel in French Polynesia, it is best to plan logistics in advance.

Terminals and Map

Temae Airport (MOZ) on the island of Moorea is a very compact and easy-to-navigate airport, which fully corresponds to the relaxed atmosphere of the island. Its main feature is that there is only one small terminal serving all flights.

The airport structure is extremely simple. The terminal is a single-story building, partially open-air, allowing you to immediately feel the tropical climate. Inside, there are all necessary zones: several Air Tahiti check-in counters, a security screening area, a small waiting hall, and a baggage claim area. Due to its small size, it is virtually impossible to get lost here, as all functional zones are within sight of each other.

Since there is only one terminal, the question of transfers between them is irrelevant. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building. After check-in and security, passengers enter a small waiting hall, from where boarding takes place directly onto the airfield. The arrival process is just as simple: passengers walk from the plane to the terminal, where they collect their luggage in the arrival hall.

Completing all procedures at Temae Airport takes very little time. Flight check-in and security screening usually go quickly, without long queues. It is recommended to arrive at the airport about an hour before departure — this time will be more than enough. Simple and clear navigation makes the stay at the airport as comfortable as possible and eliminates stress, allowing you to enjoy your journey from the very first minutes.

Airport History

The history of Temae Airport (MOZ) is inextricably linked with the development of tourism on the island of Moorea and throughout French Polynesia. The airport was officially opened on October 6, 1967. Its construction was a key step in transforming the island into one of the most desirable tourist destinations, offering a fast and convenient alternative to ferry services with neighboring Tahiti.

Since its opening, the airport has gone through several stages of modernization. Initially having a simple runway, it was gradually improved to accommodate more modern turboprop aircraft, such as ATRs, which are the backbone of inter-island aviation today. The main goal has always been to ensure safety and increase capacity for the growing flow of travelers. Although Temae Airport cannot boast records for size or passenger traffic on a global scale, its role in the island's economy and life cannot be overestimated.

One of the most interesting facts related to the airport's history is its participation in creating one of the shortest commercial flights in the world. The flight between Moorea and Tahiti takes only about 10-15 minutes but offers passengers unforgettable views of turquoise lagoons and volcanic peaks from a bird's-eye view. Temae Airport is not just a transport hub, but a gateway to paradise that has been hospitably welcoming travelers from all over the world for decades.

Services and Amenities

Temae Airport on the island of Moorea is a compact and cozy aviation hub reflecting the relaxed atmosphere of French Polynesia. Services here are focused on providing basic comfort before departure. Inside the terminal building, there is a small café where you can buy snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. There is also a souvenir shop offering products by local artisans, pearl jewelry, and other memorable gifts that will be a wonderful reminder of your trip.

For those who need to stay connected, Wi-Fi is available at the airport, although the terms of service may change. The number of power outlets for charging devices is limited, so a portable charger may be very useful. There is an ATM at the airport for withdrawing cash, but there are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange points. It is recommended to exchange money in advance or in major settlements on the island.

The waiting area at Temae Airport is simple and functional. There are no separate VIP lounges, but the general atmosphere is quite calm. Standard amenities in restrooms are provided for passengers with small children. Assistance is available for travelers with disabilities; however, the need for accompaniment and special services should be communicated to the airline in advance so that airport staff are ready for your arrival.

There are no hotels or business centers within the airport building itself. However, since Moorea is a popular tourist destination, many hotels, bungalows, and resorts are located just a few minutes' drive away. Transfers to/from the airport are usually easy to organize through your hotel. Specialized conference rooms and business services can also be found at large hotel complexes on the island.

Dining

Temae Airport on the island of Moorea is a compact regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments is appropriate. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants as in large international airports. As a rule, all the few food outlets are concentrated in the general hall before passing security control (in the landside zone), which is convenient for both departing passengers and those meeting them.

Usually, a small café or snack bar operates at the airport. The menu offers basic options for a snack: sandwiches, pastries, chips, chocolate, as well as hot and cold drinks — coffee, tea, juices, and sparkling water. Sometimes you can try local tropical fruit juices here. This is a great option for a quick bite before departure, but for a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose an establishment outside the airport.

Prices at the island airport are generally higher than average compared to cafés in other parts of Moorea. Opening hours are usually tied to flight schedules and may be limited. Specialized menus (vegetarian, gluten-free, Halal) are likely not available here. If you have strict dietary requirements, it is safer to bring food with you.

Travel Tips

Traveling through Temae Airport on the island of Moorea is usually a quick and simple process, as it serves mainly short domestic flights. To make your trip go as smoothly as possible, use our tips.

Arrival and Check-in. For domestic flights, for example to Tahiti, it is recommended to arrive at the airport about 60-90 minutes before departure. This time is quite enough to drop off luggage and pass control without rushing. Check-in itself is quick, and if your airline (for example, Air Tahiti) offers online check-in, this will help save even more time.

Best Seats on the Plane. The flight between Moorea and Tahiti is one of the shortest and most scenic in the world, lasting only 10–15 minutes. To fully enjoy the stunning views of turquoise lagoons and volcanic peaks, be sure to choose a window seat. The spectacle is truly breathtaking!

Hand Luggage and Security. The rules here are standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and sharp objects are prohibited. Security control at Temae Airport usually passes very quickly due to low passenger traffic. It is worth remembering that strict rules for the import and export of plants and animal products apply in French Polynesia, but this concerns international flights more.

Transfers and Customs. Most travelers arrive in Moorea from Tahiti, where they have already passed international customs and passport control at Faa'a Airport (PPT). Therefore, there is no customs control when flying between islands. If you are flying from Moorea to an international flight with a transfer in Papeete, allow enough time between flights for calm check-in and completing all procedures.

How to Save Time and Money:

  • Book airline tickets in advance, especially during the high season.
  • Travel light to avoid extra charges for excess baggage.
  • Book a transfer from the airport to the hotel in advance, as the number of taxis on site may be limited.

If the Flight is Delayed. Temae Airport is very compact, and the range of services is limited. In case of a flight delay, there may not be much entertainment here. Ensure your gadgets are charged, and bring a book or download movies. Airline representatives will provide up-to-date information on the flight status. Most importantly — stay calm and enjoy your last moments in a tropical paradise.

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