Air Tahiti, the regional airline conducting turboprop services in French Polynesia, is poised to unveil a brand-new, upscale method of travel. The airline intends to grow its fleet and, by the end of 2026, will receive an ATR 72-600 featuring a distinctive interior. This aircraft will boast a completely business class arrangement, showcasing ATR’s HighLine series of top-tier cabin designs. The aircraft will include only 26 seats arranged in a 1-1 layout, crafted by Geven for ATR, providing 39 inches of seat pitch, 21.6 inches of seat width, 7 inches of recline, a personal side console, designated storage, as well as USB-A and USB-C charging outlets.
Air Tahiti’s CEO, Edouard Wong Fat, asserts that this project is not merely focused on fleet renewal but aims to unveil a fresh travel experience that reflects the islands’ beauty and essence. The all-business class service will operate on selected routes from Papeete to Bora Bora and Raiatea, covering short distances of 135-160 miles, with flight durations around an hour.
The pricing for this new offering begins at slightly over $500 per seat for flights commencing in December 2026. Given that current economy fares range between $250-350, this pricing is fairly competitive. The airline aims to provide a premium experience with decreased capacity, as the new seating configuration will accommodate over 60% fewer seats than the conventional layout.
In conclusion, Air Tahiti’s launch of an all-business class ATR 72-600 signifies an innovative stride in regional air travel, promising a luxurious experience for travelers in French Polynesia. The success of this initiative will hinge on the market’s reception of the reduced capacity and upscale pricing.