Aircalin to restart Melbourne-Noumea flights after 3 years

Aircalin has announced the resumption of commercial flights from Noumea to Melbourne following a pause of three-and-a-half years.

From Friday 8 December Aircalin will operate 3 flights per week from Melbourne to Noumea, with a weekly schedule of return flights on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.

Flights will be operated on Aircalin’s Airbus A320Neo, with fuel consumption and carbon emissions reduced by up to 20 per cent per seat.

Passengers can choose between Premium Economy and Economy Class and all passengers will be offered a selection of magazines to download to their personal device (tablet, smartphone, laptop, etc) 48 hours prior to departure and for 24 hours after the arrival of their Aircalin-operated flight. As a full service carrier, 23kg of luggage (1 piece) and meals and beverages are all included with Aircalin.

Aircalin plane rendering

Travellers can now also purchase, under an Aircalin flight number, flights with Air Caledonie to the beautiful islands of New Caledonia, in continuation of their international flight (with a change of airport). For instance, a Melbourne-Lifou, Melbourne-Isle of Pines, Melbourne-Ouvea, are all possible with an itinerary in the same Aircalin booking and ticket.

Aircalin general manager Australia Chris Thistlethwaite said the airline is very excited to offer Victorians a new direct flight destination.

“As Australia’s closest South Pacific neighbour, New Caledonia offers a plethora of activities and holiday options for Victorians and with a flight time of 3 hours and 35 minutes from Melbourne, you can even visit for a long weekend,” he said.

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said Aircalin’s return was exciting news for Victorian travellers.

“There is huge demand for flights to tropical holiday destinations and given Noumea’s relative proximity to Melbourne, we expect these services will prove very popular,” she said.

“With its idyllic scenery and unique blend of French and island cultures, New Caledonia has so much to offer, and Melbourne’s growing population means there is plenty of opportunity for growth.”

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aircalin Chris Thistlethwaite Melbourne-Noumea new caledonia