As Moana 2 hits theatres this week, Simple Flying took a chance to explore the airlines serving Tahiti in French Polynesia. The newest airline to take to the skies is Air Moana, a Polynesian domestic airline that has been flying for less than two years. All about Air Moana The airline was founded in the beginning of 2022 to fill a gap in the market, which is largely dominated by Air Tahiti and Air Tahiti Nui.
It is owned by local Polynesian and private owners and hires locally recruited employees. Air Moana launched its first flights in February 2023 and has gradually been expanding its network in the months since. When reached for comment by Simple Flying, a spokesperson for the airline highlighted that the airline considers innovation to be a top priority as it grows, noting: "Innovation is central to our mission of offering a unique flying experience.
" The airline is operating using two ATR 72-600 aircraft, which it leased through December 2025. The carrier's long-term strategy is to shift operations to a fleet of three ATR 62-600 XT aircraft to connect the islands and provide an exceptional experience for passengers, with a spokesperson noting: "Air Moana represents an extraordinary human, economic, and social adventure. Our dynamic teams are proud of the achievements realized in such a short time, and we are confident in the company’s growth potential.
"The interest we are generating today is a testament to the work we’ve accomplished—and it’s only the beginning..