REVIEW AIRLINE: AIR TAHITI NUI

Europe

REVIEW AIRLINE: AIR TAHITI NUI

Maeva or Welcome to the best airline that flies to the Pacific.

When I booked my trip to French Polynesia, one of my concerns was the number of flight hours it would take to get to Papeete (capital of French Polynesia). After a brief search, I found Air Tahiti Nui, and despite having never flown with this airline, it seemed great.

From Europe, Air Tahiti Nui operates up to 7 weekly flights from Paris (CDG) and up to 14 weekly flights from Los Angeles (LAX to Papeete with connections available to/from 23 European cities.

CHECK IN EXPERIENCE

I confess that I was very anxious, because in August there was a lot of congestion at major airports, such as CDG Paris.

But I was pleasantly surprised when I saw that at check in, everything was very fluid, and the attendants were very helpful and friendly. It was a pretty quick process. I was also presented with several gifts from my destination, French Polynesia, as you can see in the video. My heart was filled with joy.

During check in I was also informed that the airline was Sport friendly. Which means free of charge for an additional piece of luggage containing sport equipment (surfboard, golf bag, diving bag, fishing rod, oars, paddle, etc.). This is wonderful!

AIRPLANE

The most beautiful plane I’ve ever seen in my life! The whole Hawaiian and Polynesian vibe has always enchanted me, and when I saw the plane decorated with several “tattoos” with Polynesian symbols, my jaw literally dropped. Beautiful decoration chosen for the planes. At that moment, even though I was in Paris, my mind and heart were already in Polynesia.

IMMERSIVE AIRLINE

When we get on the plane, we are offered a flower from Tahiti. It was very cute.

The 100% Polynesian flight crew based in Tahiti. The flight attendants are friendly and have incredible energy.

The airplane cabin decoration with famous paintings by Paul Gauguin and photos of Polynesian landscapes.

Three colorful cabins (Poevara Business, Moana Premium and Moana Economy) are distinguished by different shades ranging from deep blue to turquoise of the lagoon. These details make this airline unique.

MOANA ECONOMY

I flew Moana Economy, and it’s amazing how spacious it is compared to other economy airlines.

The windows are extra wide and electric. Instead of the little door to close the window, on Air Tahiti Nui planes, just press the button and the windows darken to protect from the light. It is even possible to adjust it to lighter or darker and vice versa.

The cabin is very quiet, being about 60% quieter than other standard aircraft.

It has HD touchscreens with lots of entertainment, and several very recent movies. It also has music, games, a guide with information about the different islands of French Polynesia, activities, etc.

As the amenities give phones, blankets, cushions and accessory bag (with socks, ear plugs, eye patches to rest).

Purified air, optimum cabin pressure and soothing “Tahitian Bliss” LED lighting to reduce the effects of jet lag.

I believe that at this moment, you are already eager to fly with Air Tahiti Nui. Right?

MEALS AND SNACKS ON BOARD

Also excellent was the Food onboard of Air Tahiti Nui.

There are 2 full meals per flight where you can choose between two menus (there are also vegan options). For example, meat or fish, etc.

There is an incredible range of drinks (from wines, juices, waters, teas, coffees, etc). It is served at the same time to those who want champagne. What better way to travel to paradise and be able to toast it with French champagne? Loved!

The desserts are divine and super tasty. In fact, one of the meals on board was breakfast. And one of the menu options was French toast. I’ve never had a French toast as tasty as that one. OMG!!!

Apart from the periods when meals are being served, landing and take-off, snacks and drinks are always available for those who want.