News
Pacific islands’ French carriers re-fleet
December 2nd 2016
Aircalin, a full-service carrier from French New Caledonia, on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Airbus to purchase two A330-900neos and two A320neos, from 2018, which will replace its two A330-200s and two A320ceos. Read More »
The airline plans to use the wide bodies on existing services to Japan and potential routes to China. The single aisle A320neos will serve its regional network of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.
“As part of our plan to boost tourism to New Caledonia, Aircalin has made a strategic decision to renew its complete fleet with the A320neo and the A330neo to grow routes and connect New Caledonia to the region,” said Aircalin CEO, Didier Tappero.
Local competitor, Air Calédonie, this week received the first of four ATR 72-600s it has ordered. The 68-seater will perform its first domestic revenue flight on December 7 from Magenta to Koné, then conduct an average 26 return flights a week.
Air Calédonie has been flying ATRs since 1986. It said the new -600s will gradually replace its turboprop fleet of three ATR 72-500s and an ATR 42-500.
Air Calédonie CEO, Samuel Hnepeune, said the “delivery represents another important step in the company’s strategy to build strong foundations. The decision to continue with ATR for our short-haul inter-island operations underpins Air Calédonie’s plan to outfit a fleet of the most fuel efficient and reliable aircraft. The ATR -600 series family’s outstanding operational effectiveness and comfort make it the right choice for our airline”.
