Summary
- Direct flights to Tahiti in July 2024 from major cities – great for surfers and Olympic enthusiasts.
- Top airlines like Air Tahiti Nui and United Airlines offering comfortable travel experiences.
- Surfboard policies vary – plan ahead and choose the airline that suits your needs for a seamless trip.
With the 2024 Olympics in Paris including surfing events hosted in Tahiti, many spectators and surfers alike will be eyeing trips to this South Pacific paradise this summer. Here’s how you can get to Tahiti in July 2024, which airlines are flying there, and what you need to know about bringing surfboards along for the ride.
International airlines operate direct flights to The Islands of Tahiti from Paris, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Honolulu, Noumea, Tokyo, Auckland and Rarotonga.
Airlines flying to Tahiti in July 2024
As WeGo notes, several airlines offer flights to Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Papeete, Tahiti (either directly or through codeshare agreements and partnerships), including American Airlines, Air France, Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, French Bee, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, KLM, Air New Zealand, Qantas, Aircalin, Air Tahiti Nui, Air Caraibes, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic Airways, Korean Air, LATAM Airlines Group SA, Japan Airlines, Air Tahiti, and Air Rarotonga.
We’re highlighting a few of the main carriers heading to Tahiti this summer based on their market presence, popularity, connectivity, and routes.
Photo: Philip Pilosian | Shutterstock
Air Tahiti Nui
As the flag carrier of French Polynesia, Air Tahiti Nui is a primary operator for flights to Tahiti. It has a significant presence and offers direct flights from major US cities such as Los Angeles via LAX and Seattle via SEA. Already known for its Polynesian hospitality, Air Tahiti Nui is reportedly planning additional flights, special services, and promotions to accommodate the increased demand due to the Olympics.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Primarily operates Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, known for their fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
- Onboard Experience – Passengers enjoy Tahitian-inspired meals and free in-flight entertainment, and business class offers lie-flat seats and additional premium amenities.
Photo: vladimir3d | Shutterstock
United Airlines
United Airlines operates flights to Tahiti from San Francisco (SFO), and their services are expected to continue through July 2024, offering another legacy carrier option for travelers.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Uses Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for flights to Tahiti as well.
- Onboard Experience – Offers various classes, including Polaris Business Class with lie-flat seats and exclusive amenities, and Economy Plus provides extra legroom for enhanced comfort.
Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines also offers flights to Tahiti, primarily from Los Angeles (LAX), and plans to ramp up its services, potentially adding more flights and offering special deals for travelers heading to the Olympics. Its reputation for reliable service and extensive in-flight amenities makes it a popular choice for long-haul flights.
Delta Air Lines is the official airline partner for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Operates Boeing 767-300ER and Airbus A350-900 for long-haul routes to Tahiti.
- Onboard Experience – Delta’s onboard experience includes Delta One suites with sliding doors and lie-flat beds, Delta Comfort+ with additional legroom, and Main Cabin with complimentary meals and beverages.
Related
Delivery Flight: Delta Air Lines’ New #TeamUSA Airbus A350 Is Ready For Paris Olympics
The unveiling ceremony for the new Airbus A350 livery took place in Toulouse (TLS).
French bee
French bee provides a low-cost option for flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Tahiti, focused on budget-friendly fares while offering passengers a pleasant travel experience. As a budget carrier, French bee may introduce special fares and promotions to attract Olympic travelers and is well-positioned to offer competitive pricing and flexible travel options for surf spectators.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Flies Airbus A350-900s, known for their operational efficiency and passenger comfort on long-haul routes.
- Onboard Experience – French bee offers Business, Premium, and Economy classes. The airline focuses on affordable travel with add-on options, such as in-flight meals and extra baggage.
Photo: EQRoy | Shutterstock
Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines operates weekly flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Papeete (PPT). Known for its Hawaiian hospitality, the airline offers a seamless connection between Hawaii and Tahiti, catering to travelers looking for an island-hopping experience.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Utilizes Airbus A330 for flights between Honolulu and Tahiti, specifically for their spacious cabins and fuel efficiency on this mid-Pacific route.
- Onboard Experience – Hawaiian Airlines provides a unique travel experience with island-inspired meals, complimentary beverages, and in-flight entertainment. The airline’s signature hospitality enhances the overall journey.
Qantas
Qantas offers flights to Tahiti primarily through its codeshare agreement with Air Tahiti Nui, according to flightmapper.net. Passengers can book flights from Sydney (SYD) to Papeete (PPT) via Auckland (AKL) or Los Angeles (LAX), providing flexible and convenient options for travelers from Australia.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Operates Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners through codeshare flights with Air Tahiti Nui.
- Onboard Experience – Qantas (via Air Tahiti Nui) provides a premium travel experience with complimentary meals, extensive in-flight entertainment, and additional baggage options. Business class features lie-flat seats and exclusive amenities.
Air New Zealand
Air New Zealand offers flights from Auckland (AKL) to Papeete (PPT). These flights provide excellent connectivity for travelers from New Zealand and other parts of the Pacific and Asia.
Fleet and Services:
- Aircraft – Flies Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for flights to Tahiti, equipped with all the modern comforts this aircraft is known for.
- Onboard Experience – Air New Zealand offers a range of services from economy to premium economy and Business Premier, featuring lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and extensive in-flight entertainment
Airline policies on surfboards
To help surfers plan their own trip along with the Olympic events window, here’s a concise overview of the surfboard travel policies for each airline flying to Tahiti:
|
Airline |
Surfboard Policy |
Fee |
Advance Notice |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Air Tahiti Nui |
Surfboards up to 300cm (118 inches) are included as part of the baggage allowance, subject to space availability. |
Part of baggage allowance |
Recommended |
|
United Airlines |
Surfboards can be checked as standard baggage; oversize fees may apply depending on dimensions and weight. |
Standard baggage fees + possible oversized fees apply |
Recommended (review guidelines & contact customer service) |
|
Delta Air Lines |
Surfboards are checked as sports equipment, up to 292 cm (115 inches). |
Typically $150 to $200 each way |
Recommended |
|
French bee |
Surfboards are checked as special baggage, and space must be confirmed in advance. |
Baggage fees apply |
Must inform in advance |
|
Hawaiian Airlines |
Surfboards are accepted as part of checked baggage. |
$35 – $150 depending on size and weight. |
Recommended |
|
Qantas |
Surfboards up to 277 cm (109 inches) are accepted as checked baggage. |
Fees apply based on weight and route. |
Recommended |
|
Air New Zealand |
Surfboards up to 250 cm (98 inches) can be checked in. |
Fees apply. |
Recommended |
Related
Taking A Surfboard On A Plane: What Are The Rules & Requirements?
Some airlines will allow you to travel with a surfboard for free, while others will charge you for oversized luggage.
Planning your trip
Traveling to Tahiti for the 2024 Olympics offers a unique opportunity to experience world-class surfing in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. With several airlines providing direct flights and accommodating policies for surfboards, planning your trip is easier than ever. Be sure to check each airline’s specific guidelines and book early to secure the best deals and ensure a smooth travel experience.
Stay updated with our in-depth coverage of travel options and tips for the 2024 Olympics in Paris and Tahiti. Have you flown to Tahiti with these airlines? Share your ideal itinerary and experiences with us in the comments section.