Which Airlines Fly to French Polynesia? Your Definitive Guide

French Polynesia, a South Pacific paradise, beckons with its turquoise lagoons, overwater bungalows, and lush volcanic landscapes. Getting there, however, requires knowing which airlines service this remote and idyllic archipelago. The good news is that several international carriers connect French Polynesia to the world, primarily landing at Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Papeete, Tahiti.

Currently, the airlines that fly to French Polynesia include:

• Air Tahiti Nui (TN): The flag carrier of French Polynesia, Air Tahiti Nui offers extensive routes from hubs like Los Angeles (LAX), Paris (CDG), Auckland (AKL), and Tokyo (NRT).
• Air France (AF): As the French national airline, Air France provides flights from Paris (CDG) to Papeete, often with a stopover in Los Angeles (LAX).
• United Airlines (UA): United Airlines offers direct flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Papeete, providing a convenient option for travelers from the West Coast of the United States.
• French bee (BF): This low-cost, long-haul airline provides flights from Paris Orly (ORY) to Papeete, often at competitive prices.
• Hawaiian Airlines (HA): Offering a shorter flight option, Hawaiian Airlines connects Honolulu (HNL) to Papeete.
• Air New Zealand (NZ): Air New Zealand operates flights from Auckland (AKL) to Papeete, offering connections from various cities across New Zealand and Australia.

Knowing these airlines is the first step to planning your dream trip to French Polynesia. Selecting the right carrier depends on your departure location, budget, and preferred travel style. Now, let’s delve deeper into some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the complexities of booking your flights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to French Polynesia

1. What is the main airport in French Polynesia?

The primary international airport in French Polynesia is Faa’a International Airport (PPT), located in Papeete, Tahiti. It’s the gateway to the islands and receives the majority of international flights. From PPT, you can then take domestic flights or ferries to other islands within the archipelago, such as Bora Bora, Moorea, and Huahine.

2. Which airlines offer direct flights to Tahiti from the United States?

Currently, Air Tahiti Nui and United Airlines offer direct flights to Tahiti from the United States. Air Tahiti Nui flies directly from Los Angeles (LAX), while United Airlines provides direct service from San Francisco (SFO). Hawaiian Airlines also offers a direct option from Honolulu (HNL), though you’ll need to connect from the mainland US to Honolulu first.

3. What is the cheapest time of year to fly to French Polynesia?

Generally, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the best deals on flights and accommodations. These months fall outside the peak tourist season, resulting in lower demand and more competitive pricing. Avoiding travel during the high season (June-August and December-January) can save you a significant amount of money. Consider also booking well in advance and being flexible with your travel dates to find the best deals.

4. How far in advance should I book my flights to French Polynesia?

It’s advisable to book your flights to French Polynesia at least 3-6 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season. Booking early increases your chances of securing the best fares and preferred flight times. This is especially true for popular routes and airlines.

5. Are there any low-cost airlines that fly to French Polynesia?

Yes, French bee is a low-cost airline that operates flights from Paris Orly (ORY) to Papeete. While they offer lower base fares, be aware of extra fees for baggage, meals, and seat selection. Another way to potentially save is to fly to Honolulu on a low cost carrier and then take Hawaiian Airlines to Tahiti.

6. What are the baggage allowances for flights to French Polynesia?

Baggage allowances vary depending on the airline and your ticket class. Air Tahiti Nui and Air France typically have more generous allowances compared to low-cost carriers like French bee. Always check the specific baggage policies of the airline you’re flying with before your trip to avoid unexpected fees at the airport. Be sure to confirm both weight and dimension restrictions.

7. Do I need a visa to enter French Polynesia?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and the European Union generally do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s always best to check the latest visa requirements with the French Embassy or Consulate in your country before traveling. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.

8. How long is the flight to French Polynesia from Los Angeles?

The flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Papeete (PPT) is approximately 8-9 hours. It’s a relatively long flight, so plan accordingly and consider bringing entertainment or a good book.

9. What are the best ways to find cheap flights to French Polynesia?

Here are some tips for finding cheap flights:

• Be flexible with your travel dates: Flying mid-week or during the shoulder seasons can often yield lower fares.
• Use flight comparison websites: Websites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines.
• Set up fare alerts: These websites can also notify you when prices drop for your desired route.
• Consider flying into nearby airports: While PPT is the main airport, occasionally, flying to a connecting city like Honolulu and then taking a separate flight to Tahiti can be cheaper.
• Book in advance: Booking at least a few months ahead of your trip typically offers better deals.
• Look for package deals: Sometimes, bundling your flight and accommodation can save you money.

10. What domestic airlines operate within French Polynesia?

Air Tahiti (VT) is the primary domestic airline in French Polynesia. It connects Tahiti to the other islands in the archipelago, including Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea, and more. Booking these flights in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.

11. Can I fly directly to Bora Bora from an international destination?

No, there are no direct international flights to Bora Bora. All international flights land at Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Papeete, Tahiti. From there, you’ll need to take a domestic flight with Air Tahiti (VT) to Bora Bora Airport (BOB). The flight from Papeete to Bora Bora is approximately 45 minutes.

12. What is the best airline for flying business class to French Polynesia?

Air Tahiti Nui and Air France are often considered the best airlines for flying business class to French Polynesia. They offer comfortable seats, excellent service, and enhanced amenities to make your journey more enjoyable. United also offers a Polaris business class option on flights from San Francisco. Ultimately, the “best” option depends on your personal preferences and priorities, such as seat comfort, meal options, and in-flight entertainment.