Air Tahiti Nui will offer a new direct service between Papeete and Sydney from December as part of its strategy to strengthen French Polynesia’s connectivity with major regional hubs across the South Pacific.
The inaugural flight is scheduled for Monday 14 December 2026. Air Tahiti Nui is operating two flights per week, offering travellers a direct, non-stop connection between Tahiti and Australia. This service significantly reduces travel time and simplify journeys between the two destinations.
The planned flight schedule is as follows (subject to validation by airport authorities):
The Islands of Tahiti continue to demonstrate strong appeal in the Australian market, which ranks among the destination’s most dynamic international segments. According to the latest provisional data from ISPF (Institut de la statistique de la Polynésie Française), French Polynesia welcomed nearly 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 tourism flows to the destination.
As a major Pacific hub, Sydney represents a strategic gateway for enhanced regional connectivity.
“We are very pleased to announce this new direct service between Papeete and Sydney,” Air Tahiti Nui CEO Lionel Guerin said. “With two direct flights per week and our codeshare agreement with Qantas, this service offers Australian travellers’ greater comfort and additional frequencies, complementing our twice-weekly service to Auckland, New Zealand.”
Beyond passenger travel, 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 entire network, Air Tahiti Nui offers an immersive travel experience on this new service, inspired by the spirit of its islands. Polynesian hospitality, delivered by the airline’s teams, accompany each passenger on a journey defined by comfort, attentiveness, and warmth.
Tickets are now available to book.
