Aircalin is the national airline of the French overseas territory of New Caledonia and the largest airline in the region. Founded in 1983, Aircalin has become one of the most important carriers in the South Pacific, serving destinations in New Caledonia, Australia, Vanuatu, New Zealand, and Japan.

The airline was founded by a group of local investors and the French government in 1983. In its early years, Aircalin operated a fleet of small aircraft, mainly leased from other airlines, to serve domestic routes within New Caledonia. The first international route was launched in 1988, when Aircalin began operating flights from Noumea to Brisbane, Australia.

Over the years, the airline has expanded its fleet and network. Today, Aircalin operates a fleet of Airbus A320, A330 and ATR72 aircraft, which serve more than 20 destinations across the South Pacific and Japan. In addition to passenger services, Aircalin also operates cargo and charter flights.

Aircalin has a long and proud history of safety and reliability. The airline has never experienced a major air crash or significant incident. However, in 2020 the airline was the subject of a federal investigation due to allegations of price fixing. The investigation is still ongoing, and Aircalin has denied any wrongdoing.

Since its inception, Aircalin has gone through several changes, both in terms of its operations and ownership structure. In 1999, the French government sold its stake in the airline to a consortium of local investors, who remain the majority owners today. In 2004, the airline began operating under the Aircalin brand, which it still uses today.

Over the years, Aircalin has achieved several important milestones. In 2002, the airline joined the global Star Alliance network, becoming the first Pacific carrier to join the network. In 2009, Aircalin became the first airline in New Caledonia to receive the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification. In 2014, the airline launched its first long-haul route, from Noumea to Osaka, Japan.

Aircalin has come a long way since its founding in 1983, and it continues to be an important player in the South Pacific aviation market. The airline’s commitment to safety and reliability has helped it earn a loyal customer base and a reputation as one of the most respected airlines in the region.