โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
25
minutes
Domestic โ International
45
minutes
Interline Connections
60
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Moorea Airport (MOZ), also known as Temae Airport, is a compact inter-island facility located near the village of Temae in northeastern Moorea, opened in October 1967. The single-terminal building serves exclusively domestic flights, primarily the 15-minute hop to Tahiti's Faa'a International Airport. With its single runway (12/30) at just 9 feet elevation, the airport offers spectacular approaches over turquoise lagoons and volcanic peaks that make it one of the most scenic airports in French Polynesia.
The terminal features basic passenger facilities appropriate for its role as a short-haul island connector, with open-air waiting areas taking advantage of the tropical climate. Check-in counters for Air Tahiti and Air Moana, the only two carriers serving the airport, operate simple but efficient procedures. The small terminal building includes a snack bar, restrooms, and a small gift shop selling local crafts, with most amenities reflecting the relaxed Polynesian atmosphere.
Handling several flights daily to Papeete, the airport serves as a vital link for Moorea's tourism industry and local population of approximately 17,000. The facility's intimate scale means passengers often walk directly to aircraft on the tarmac, with boarding typically completed just 10-15 minutes before departure. Despite its modest size, the airport efficiently processes tourists heading to Moorea's luxury resorts and locals commuting to Tahiti for business or services.
๐ Connection Tips
Moorea Airport (MOZ) sits in northeastern Moorea near Temae village, requiring pre-arranged ground transportation as no public transport serves the airport. Taxis are available but relatively expensive, with fares to popular destinations running 3,000-5,000 CFP ($30-50 USD) to nearby resorts and up to 8,000 CFP ($80) to distant parts of the island. Car rentals are available through Avis, Europcar, and local agencies with desks at the airport, though fleets are limited and advance reservation is essential, particularly June through September and December. For connections to Tahiti, both Air Tahiti and Air Moana operate multiple daily 15-minute flights to Papeete, with morning and evening services most frequent.
Most resorts and hotels provide complimentary shuttle services that must be booked in advance, with journey times ranging from 10 minutes to southern beaches to 30 minutes for northwestern resorts. Taxis don't always wait at the airport, so having your accommodation arrange pickup is recommended. The 60-kilometer coastal road circles the island, making navigation straightforward. The alternative is returning to Papeete via ferry from Vaiare port (30 minutes from airport), offering a scenic 30-40 minute crossing for about 1,500 CFP ($15) per person.
These shuttles typically coordinate with flight arrival times but may wait for multiple passengers. Some drivers accept euros or US dollars but change rates are poor. Scooter rentals are popular with younger travelers but require an appropriate license. Allow minimum 2 hours for international connections in Papeete, as you must transfer between domestic and international terminals.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Atuona Airport (AUQ), also known as Hiva Oa Airport, is the primary aviation gateway to the Marquesas Islands in French Polynesia. Situated on the Tepuna plateau at an elevation of approximately 1,480 feet, the airport features a single, modern terminal building that manages domestic scheduled flights and inter-island charters. The facility serves as a critical transport link for the island of Hiva Oa, providing essential access for both local residents and international tourists seeking to visit the final resting place of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel.
Inside the terminal, travelers will find a minimalist but well-maintained environment that reflects the island's unique Polynesian culture. There is a comfortable waiting area with seating and basic restroom facilities. While the airport does not house large duty-free malls or full-service restaurants, a small snack bar or cafe is typically active during scheduled arrivals, offering light refreshments and local treats. Several kiosks provide a selection of local handicrafts, postcards, and world-renowned Marquesan vanilla.
Operational procedures at Atuona are managed by the French Polynesian aviation authorities, with manual baggage handling and standard passenger identification checks. The airfield infrastructure includes a single 3,937-foot asphalt runway suitable for regional turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 42 and ATR 72 often used by Air Tahiti. The terminal is fully accessible and provides a secure entry point for those seeking to explore the dramatic volcanic cliffs and lush valleys of the Marquesas, significantly reducing travel time compared to the multi-day maritime voyages from the national capital of Papeete.
๐ Connection Tips
Atuona Airport (AUQ) is the essential arrival point for travelers exploring the Marquesas Islands. For travelers, 'connecting' at AUQ is a localized experience because all operations are consolidated within a single terminal. Most passengers arrive on flights from Tahiti (PPT) or inter-island hops from Nuku Hiva (NHV). If your plans involve an international hub like Los Angeles, you will first need to return to Tahiti. It is recommended to allow at least 24 hours of buffer time, as Marquesan weather can occasionally lead to flight cancellations due to low-lying fog on the plateau.
Ground transportation to central Atuona, located 10 kilometers southwest, is primarily managed through pre-arranged hotel transfers. While a small number of taxis may meet arrivals, they are not on permanent standby, and it is highly recommended to coordinate your pickup with your guesthouse in advance. A typical journey takes about 20 minutes along a scenic, winding road. For independent travelers, car rental services are available near the airport but should be booked well ahead of time to ensure a 4x4 vehicle is waiting for you upon landing.
Travelers should arrive at the terminal at least 90 minutes before scheduled departure, as the check-in process can be meticulous for inter-island flights. The terminal environment is basic and lacks ATMs, so ensure you have sufficient CFP Francs (XPF) in cash for small local expenses. Wi-Fi is available but its reliability can vary. If you have a longer layover, the nearby plateau offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. For missed connections, the Air Tahiti and Air Moana service counters are centrally located in the departures lobby to provide assistance.
โ Back to Moorea Airport