Getting to and around The Islands of Tahiti is becoming easier than ever, with a series of new and expanded transport options improving connectivity for travellers from Australia and across French Polynesia.
From Air Tahiti Nui’s new nonstop Sydney – Papeete service and additional flights to Fakarava, to upgrades at Tahiti-Faa’a Airport and new ferry options on Tahiti, travellers will have more choice and greater flexibility when planning their island-hopping itineraries.
Air Tahiti Nui launches new direct Sydney–Papeete flights
From 15 December 2026, Australian travellers will be able to fly nonstop from Sydney to Papeete with Air Tahiti Nui, marking a major new connection between Australia and The Islands of Tahiti. The new service will operate twice weekly, complementing the airline’s existing three weekly services via Auckland.
Flights from Sydney are scheduled to operate on Tuesdays and Fridays, with journey times ranging from just under seven hours to around eight hours and 35 minutes depending on the season and direction of travel.
The flights will land on the same day as departure from Sydney, in the morning, leaving travellers plenty of time to enjoy Tahiti or head to another island on the same day.
Tickets are now on sale, bringing The Islands of Tahiti’s lagoons, mountains and Polynesian culture within one direct flight of Sydney.
Air Moana strengthens access to Fakarava
Air Moana has launched a new Tahiti–Fakarava route with four weekly flights, strengthening connectivity to the Tuamotu Islands. The service is operated with the airline’s ATR 72-600 aircraft, making it easier for travellers to add Fakarava’s renowned lagoon and diving experiences to a wider French Polynesia itinerary.
Tahiti-Faa’a Airport upgrades its domestic boarding area
Tahiti-Faa’a Airport has begun a major 18-month project to modernise its domestic boarding area. Planned upgrades include air-conditioning, a fourth boarding gate and capacity for 11 ATR aircraft simultaneously, with the project aimed at making inter-island connections smoother and more comfortable for travellers.
Apetahi Express links Taiarapu and Papeete
The Apetahi Express now connects Taiarapu and Papeete by sea, offering a one-hour crossing between the Tahiti peninsula and the capital. The service is designed to provide an additional transport option while helping to ease road congestion, with fares listed at 1,000 XPF (about AUD 13.60) per trip.
Explore Tahiti Tourisme:
Online: https://tahititourisme.au/
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