The Government of New Caledonia has announced that Air Calédonie will transfer its operations from Magenta Airport to La Tontouta International Airport on 2 March 2026, following extensive consultation with stakeholders. The move aims to strengthen the airline’s long-term viability and optimise the territory’s aviation infrastructure.
Strategic Relocation
The relocation will bring Air Calédonie and Aircalin together in a single facility, improving coordination, resource sharing, and operational efficiency. For New Caledonia, the move is expected to reduce long-term public spending by approximately 500 million francs and suspend around 1 billion francs in planned infrastructure investments. For Air Calédonie, the consolidation will enhance competitiveness, reduce delays and cancellations, and generate similar cost savings.
“This relocation is a vital part of the rescue plan for air connectivity between the islands and the mainland,” said Alcide Ponga, President of the Government.
“It complements the airline’s ongoing efforts, including the 2023 redundancy plan, aircraft sales, and regional expansion initiatives.”
Passenger Experience and Facilities
Domestic and international passengers will benefit from modernised facilities, including:
- New domestic departures and arrivals halls
- Expanded freight and aircraft parking areas
- Improved restaurants and retail outlets, including Columbus Café, Kalolo, and Daily Break
- Dedicated Air Calédonie customer service area
The terminal will support seamless passenger flows, with domestic and international operations fully separated by mid-2026.
Transport and Parking
A dedicated shuttle service, operated by Tontouta Express (TEX), will connect Nouméa to La Tontouta Airport for 500 francs per passenger per journey. The shuttle will serve four key stops: Patch station (Nouméa), Dumbéa, Païta, and Tontouta.
The airport’s public car park offers 536 spaces, with the first 20 minutes free and full pricing available online.
Governance and Oversight
The transfer is overseen by a steering committee (COPIL) and several project committees (COPROJ) covering communication, accessibility, infrastructure, continuity, and Magenta Airport’s future. A dedicated Q&A portal and email address (GNC.transfert.TTA@gmail.com) ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement.
“Our goal is to provide safe, efficient, and comfortable services for all passengers while strengthening Air Calédonie’s long-term viability,” said Daniel Houmbouy, CEO of Air Calédonie.
This relocation represents a major milestone in the development of New Caledonia’s aviation sector and a strategic step towards sustainable air transport for the territory.
For further information: https://gouv.nc/projet-de-transfert-de-laeroport-de-magenta-vers-la-tontouta
