Aircalin, the airline based in New Caledonia in the South Pacific, is set to enhance its long-haul capabilities with the recent order of two A350-900 twin-aisle aircraft from Airbus. These new additions are expected to expand the carrier's route network, connecting Nouméa's La Tontouta International Airport to more destinations across Oceania and Asia. Currently operating with a fleet of two A330-900neo aircraft, Aircalin flies to various destinations, including Bangkok, Singapore, Brisbane, Sydney, and Paris via Bangkok, with additional regional services using A320neo aircraft to nearby islands such as New Zealand, Fiji, and Tahiti.

Georges Selefen, the CEO of Aircalin, expressed excitement about the partnership with Airbus, stating, "As a continuation of our long-standing partnership with Airbus, we have selected the A350-900 to join our fleet in the coming years. These aircraft are essential for operating our recently inaugurated Nouméa-Paris via Bangkok route and will open the doors to very long-haul flights, enabling Aircalin to pursue its development strategy."

Benoit de Saint-Exupery, the Executive Vice President of Sales at Airbus’ Commercial Aircraft division, emphasized the benefits of the A350 for Aircalin, stating, "We are pleased with Aircalin’s decision to add the A350 to its fleet. This will allow Aircalin to further develop its potential and open up more long-haul routes. The order is yet another endorsement of the A350 as the undisputed long-range leader, bringing fuel-efficient service on some of the world’s longest networks, while offering passengers the highest levels of comfort."

The move by Aircalin follows a series of recent developments in the aviation industry, including an order for an A330-900neo by Kuwait Airways, Jazeera Airways' plan to purchase A320ceo aircraft, and RoyalJet's memorandum of understanding with Airbus for ACJ320neo corporate jets. Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has also announced an expansion of its Airbus A350-900 fleet, while Air India disclosed its order for 10 A350-900s and 90 A320neo family aircraft.

In a significant achievement, the Airbus A321XLR received its Type Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) following approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), paving the way for enhanced operational capabilities in the aviation industry.