South Pacific based Aircalin signs deal to buy four new Airbus jets

Aircalin, the Noumea-based carrier in the French territory of New Caledonia has signed an agreement for two A320neo single-aisle and two A330-900 wide-body aircraft.

The agreement was finalised and signed at a ceremony in the capital Noumea attended by airline officials and Airbus executives.

Aircalin’s new A320neo’s will be deployed on existing regional routes to Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

The airline will also boost services to Japan for onward connections and the possible opening of new routes such as to China.

“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 Didier Tappero, Aircalin CEO. “The NEO aircraft with its state-of-the-art technology will burn less fuel, lower our operational costs and offer our loyal passengers the highest standards in cabin comfort.”

Bernard Deladrière, Chairman of the Board and Member of New Caledonia Government added, “Aircalin is taking on an even more strategic step for its future, as it is about its profitability and its competitiveness.”