The Hidden Gem of French Polynesia: Ahe Airport

With its picturesque islands, clear blue waters, and rich Polynesian culture, French Polynesia is a popular tourist destination for those seeking paradise. And while most travelers flock to the more well-known airports, such as Tahiti and Bora Bora, there is a hidden gem in this tropical paradise that is waiting to be explored - Ahe Airport.

Located on the island of Ahe in the Tuamotu Archipelago, Ahe Airport (IATA: AHE, ICAO: NTHE) may not be as famous as its neighboring airports, but it certainly holds its own unique charm and offers a different kind of experience for travelers. From its humble beginnings to its current operations and facilities, Ahe Airport has a fascinating story to tell Ahe Airport.

The Beginnings of Ahe Airport

Unlike most airports, Ahe Airport does not have a set established year. This is because it began as a small airstrip created by local authorities to accommodate light aircrafts and supply for the island's residents. Ahe Airport was officially recognized as an airport in 1977 when the French government designated it as a domestic airport.

Before being recognized as an airport, Ahe Island was only accessible by boat, making it quite isolated from the rest of French Polynesia. Ahe Airport changed that, making travel to and from the island much more convenient, especially for those who live on the island or are visiting for business or leisure.

The Island and Surrounding Area

Ahe Island is a small, coral atoll in the Tuamotu Archipelago, located about 600 kilometers northeast of Tahiti. It is part of the commune of Manihi, which is made up of several islands in the region.

The island itself measures about 12 kilometers in length and 8 kilometers in width, with its main village, Tenukupara, located on the western side. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters and is known for its rich marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving Allentown Lehigh Valley International Airport.

Apart from its natural beauty, Ahe Island is also known for its black pearl farming. In fact, it is one of the main industries on the island, providing a source of income for the residents.

The Facilities at Ahe Airport

Being a relatively small airport, Ahe Airport has limited facilities, but it has everything you need to make your travel experience comfortable and convenient.

The passenger terminal at Ahe Airport is a simple, open-air building that blends in with the island's laid-back vibe. With just one terminal, navigation is easy, and there are no long queues or crowds to contend with. Additionally, the staff at Ahe Airport are known for their warm hospitality and are always willing to assist travelers with any questions or concerns.

Inside the terminal, you can find a waiting area with a few seats, a small snack bar, and a souvenir shop selling local handicrafts and black pearls. There are also restrooms and a luggage claim area for arriving passengers.

The Airlines and Destinations

Ahe Airport is a domestic airport, and Air Tahiti is the main operating airline. As the national airline of French Polynesia, Air Tahiti connects Ahe Airport to other destinations within the region, including Tahiti, Bora Bora, Rangiroa, and more.

Flights to and from Ahe Airport may not be as frequent as other airports in French Polynesia, but they are usually reliable and punctual. The flight from Ahe to Tahiti takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, while the flight to Bora Bora takes around 50 minutes.

The Runway

One of the unique features of Ahe Airport is its runway - or should we say, runways. Unlike most airports with multiple runways, Ahe Airport only has one, but it has an interesting characteristic. The runway at Ahe Airport is bisected by a road, making it the only airport in the world with a road running through its runway.

The runway measures 1,440 meters and is made of asphalt, and it is just long enough to accommodate the aircraft used by Air Tahiti. While it may not be the longest or most modern runway, it serves its purpose well and ensures safe landings and takeoffs for travelers.

Exploring Ahe Island

While Ahe Airport may not have the same level of tourist infrastructure as other airports in French Polynesia, it offers a unique opportunity for travelers to explore a less developed and more remote part of the region. With its crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, and warm hospitality, Ahe Island is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Visitors to Ahe Island can enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. There are also opportunities to visit pearl farms and learn about the process of cultivating these precious gems. For those interested in the local culture and history, a visit to the small village of Tenukupara is a must, where you can interact with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life.

The Future of Ahe Airport

As a small and lesser-known airport, Ahe Airport does not have any major expansion plans at the moment. However, with the increasing number of tourists wanting to explore more remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations, Ahe Airport is poised to see growth in the coming years.

The government and local authorities have recognized the potential of Ahe Island and have plans to promote it as an eco-tourism destination. This will not only boost tourism and the economy of the island but also bring awareness to the need for sustainable and responsible travel.

How to Get to Ahe Airport

The most common way to reach Ahe Airport is by taking a domestic flight from Tahiti or another nearby island. Air Tahiti offers regular flights to and from Ahe Airport, usually with a stopover at another airport. Travelers can also arrange for private charters to the island.

Another way to reach Ahe Island is by boat. However, this is not a recommended option as the journey can take several days, and the weather conditions can be unpredictable.

Final Thoughts

Ahe Airport may not be the most well-known airport in French Polynesia, but it certainly has its own unique charm and allure. From its humble beginnings as a small airstrip to becoming a designated domestic airport, Ahe Airport has played a significant role in connecting this remote island to the rest of the world.

The island of Ahe, with its stunning natural beauty and rich Polynesian culture, is the perfect escape for those looking for a more secluded and authentic experience. And with its plans for eco-tourism development, Ahe Island is set to become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to discover the hidden gems of French Polynesia.

So, the next time you plan a trip to paradise, consider taking a detour to Ahe Island and experience the tranquility and charm of Ahe Airport. Trust us, it will be a journey you won't soon forget.

Ahe Airport

Ahe Airport


Airport Details Ahe Airport - Name Airport: Ahe Airport

  • Category: Airports A
  • Name Airport: Ahe Airport
  • IATA Code: AHE
  • ICAO Code: NTHE
  • Country: French Polynesia
  • Address: Ahe, French Polynesia
  • Type: Domestic
  • Established Year: N/A
  • Area Size: N/A
  • Owner Operator: N/A
  • Passenger Terminals: 1
  • Cargo Terminals: N/A
  • Major Operating Airlines: Air Tahiti
  • Runways: 1
  • Longest Runway: 1,440 meters
  • Shortest Runway: 1,440 meters

AHE

AHE


  • Passenger Gates: N/A
  • Cargo Gates: N/A
  • Operating Airlines: Air Tahiti
  • Daily Flights: 3
  • Annual Passenger Capacity: N/A
  • Number of Employees: N/A
  • Official Contact Number: +689 49 41 41
  • VIP Lounge: No
  • Parking Facilities: Yes
  • Distance from City Center: N/A
  • Distance from Nearest Business Hub: N/A
  • Restaurants and Cafes: 1
  • Duty Free Shops: N/A
  • Car Rental Facilities: No
  • Taxi Services: Yes

The Hidden Gem of French Polynesia: Ahe Airport

Ahe Airport


Ahe Airport: Exploring the Remote Island Gateway

Located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Ahe Airport is a small and remote airport that serves as the main gateway to the island of Ahe in French Polynesia. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery, Ahe Airport may not be a bustling and busy airport like other major cities, but it has its own unique charm and offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience.

The island of Ahe, also known as the "Island of Love," is a hidden gem in the Tuamotu Archipelago. With a total land area of only 12 OpenedHost.Com.6 square kilometers, it is a small and intimate island that is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbors such as Tahiti and Bora Bora. However, for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Ahe is a perfect choice. And the airport is where your journey to this tropical paradise begins.

Passenger Gates and Cargo Gates

Due to its small size, Ahe Airport currently does not have any designated passenger or cargo gates. All flights operate from one main terminal, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience for travelers. The airport runs efficiently, and passengers can easily navigate their way around the terminal, even without the use of gates.

Operating Airlines and Daily Flights

Ahe Airport is currently served by only one airline, Air Tahiti, which offers three daily flights to and from the airport. Air Tahiti is a regional airline that connects the islands of French Polynesia, and Ahe is one of its important destinations. The flights are well-timed, making it possible for travelers to visit Ahe for a short vacation or as a part of a larger island-hopping itinerary Aguadilla Rafael Hernandez Airport.

Annual Passenger Capacity and Number of Employees

Due to its remote location and lesser-known status, Ahe Airport does not have a specified annual passenger capacity. However, it does serve a significant number of travelers, mainly tourists, who visit the island every year. The number of employees working at the airport is also not publicly disclosed, but given the size of the airport, it is safe to assume that the staff number is not very high.

Official Contact Number and VIP Lounge

For inquiries and information, the official contact number for Ahe Airport is +689 49 41 41. However, due to the limited facilities at the airport, Ahe does not have a VIP lounge. However, the friendly and hospitable airport staff make up for the lack of premium amenities, making your travel experience a memorable one.

Parking Facilities

Despite its small size, Ahe Airport does offer parking facilities for travelers. There is an open parking area just outside the terminal building, and since the number of flights is limited, finding a parking space is not a problem. The parking fee is also relatively affordable, making it easier for those traveling on a budget.

Distance from City Center and Nearest Business Hub

One unique feature of Ahe Airport is its proximity to the city center and nearest business hub. Since the island of Ahe is relatively small, the airport is located just a short distance away from the island's main town. Visitors can easily reach their accommodations or explore the island's attractions within a few minutes of leaving the airport. There are also taxi services available at the airport, making it convenient for travelers to get around the island.

Restaurants and Cafes

The airport may be small, but Ahe does offer one restaurant and cafe, serving delicious traditional Polynesian dishes and refreshing drinks. The open-air restaurant is located just outside the terminal building, giving travelers a chance to savor the island's tropical vibes, even before they set foot on Ahe. The food is freshly made and reasonably priced, making it a popular choice among travelers.

Duty Free Shops, Car Rental Facilities, and Taxi Services

Due to its remote location and limited passenger traffic, Ahe Airport does not have any duty-free shops or car rental facilities. However, taxi services are available at the airport, making it convenient for travelers to reach their desired destination on the island. The taxi rates are fixed, and visitors can easily hire a taxi from the airport counter.

Experience the Unique Charm of Ahe Airport

Ahe Airport may not have all the fancy amenities and facilities like bigger and busier airports, but it has its own unique charm and offers a tranquil and peaceful setting for travelers. The friendly staff, open-air restaurant, and convenient facilities make it a welcoming and refreshing experience for anyone who visits.

From the moment you land at Ahe Airport, you will be greeted with the island's warm hospitality and captivating beauty. As you make your way towards the terminal, you will be mesmerized by the stunning views of the turquoise lagoon and the vibrant green landscape. And as you depart from Ahe, you will be taking along a piece of this paradise with you, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

So, next time you plan your trip to French Polynesia, do not forget to add Ahe Airport to your itinerary. Explore the untainted natural beauty, immerse yourself in the laid-back island culture, and bask in the warm glow of the Pacific sun. Ahe Airport is waiting to welcome you, so pack your bags and get ready for a unique and memorable travel experience.

Ahe Airport

The Hidden Gem of French Polynesia: Ahe Airport


Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information on this page 100%. All information provided here may change without prior notice.