Fiji Airways returns to New Caledonia with direct Nouméa flights

Fiji Airways will resume direct flights between Nadi and Nouméa from September, restoring a key Pacific route and adding more than 10,000 seats annually between Fiji and New Caledonia.

The national carrier announced that direct services to New Caledonia will recommence on September 22, 2026, operating twice weekly every Tuesday and Friday using Fiji Link's ATR 72-600 aircraft.

The move strengthens Fiji Airways' regional network and improves connectivity between two of the Pacific's major hubs.

Fiji Airways managing director and chief executive officer Paul Scurrah said the reinstatement would boost tourism, trade and regional ties.

"New Caledonia is a stunning destination and an important market for Fiji Airways. Reinstating this service creates exciting new opportunities for travellers, whether visiting Fiji for our world-renowned hospitality or exploring the unique French Pacific culture of Nouméa," Mr Scurrah said.

"With more than 10,000 additional seats opening up annually, this is a significant boost for tourism, trade and people-to-people connections across our region. We look forward to welcoming passengers on board."

The airline said the route would also strengthen an important travel corridor for regional organisations and development agencies based in Suva and Nouméa.

Nouméa and Suva host several of the Pacific's key intergovernmental and development organisations, with staff, consultants and delegates travelling regularly between the two cities. Fiji Airways said the service would support the growing demand for regional business and official travel.

The route will also provide seamless connections through Fiji Airways' international network, offering onward travel to Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada and other destinations across the Pacific.

Tickets went on sale yesterday through the airline's website and authorised travel agents. Introductory return fares from Nadi to Nouméa start from $739.

Under the new schedule, Flight FJ291 will depart Nadi at 8am and arrive in Nouméa at 10am, while Flight FJ290 will depart Nouméa at 10.45am and arrive in Nadi at 2.45pm.