The board of the Autonomous Port of Papeete has approved XPF225 million CFP franc (USD2.2 million) participation in the tax-relief financing of three ATR72-600s being acquired by Natireva, dba Air Moana (NM, Papeete), the airline confirmed to ch-aviation.
Local broadcaster Radio 1 Tahiti reported, citing the port's management, that the board adopted the proposal at a July 9, 2026, meeting. The port will provide the funds through a non-interest-bearing current-account contribution to Natireva.
The transaction is expected to generate a XPF300 million (USD2.9 million) tax credit for the port over two financial years, giving it a net benefit of XPF75 million (USD720,000).
"The recent decision by the Board of Directors of the Port Autonome de Papeete to participate in this tax incentive operation falls exclusively within the legal tax framework established by French Polynesian regulations," Air Moana said. "It is neither an equity investment in Air Moana nor financial support to the airline, but a tax investment entitling the port to the tax credit provided by law, in the same way as many other investors."
Air Tahiti (VT, Papeete) has opposed broader government support that was extended to its rival, arguing that it distorts competition. Its legal challenge led the Administrative Tribunal of French Polynesia to annul three decrees in January 2026, covering approximately XPF1.5 billion (USD14.4 million) through a direct loan and two guarantees intended to support the same aircraft acquisition programme.
The court found that Natireva met the local definition of a "company in difficulty" when the assistance was approved, which under local law barred the government from granting it loans or guarantees. Air Moana said it would appeal the ruling. Air Tahiti previously estimated that total public interventions for the start-up, including tax exemptions, were worth nearly XPF5 billion (USD50 million).
According to ch-aviation data, Air Moana currently operates four ATR72-600s. It has further commitments for another three aircraft of the type, two of which will arrive in August and November 2026. The purchased aircraft will progressively replace its dry-leased ATR72-600s.
