Business Class Flight Deals to Tahiti from $3973

Planning your transportation to Papeete

Nonstop flights from LAX to PPT typically take 8-9 hours, depending on the flight path. One-stop flights, however, can vary greatly, taking anywhere from 12 hours to over 50 hours, depending on the duration of layovers. Deciding between nonstop and connecting flights will depend on your priorities regarding time, cost, and overall convenience.

Several airlines offer the most time- and cost-efficient nonstop flights from Los Angeles to Papeete. These include Air France and Delta Air Lines, with round-trip fares around $6,200 when checked in October 2024 for flights the following month. Air Tahiti Nui offers round-trip fares ranging from $6,400 to $7,200 for the same period. However, flight prices can fluctuate, so always check real-time fares before booking for the most accurate pricing.

Some hotels provide shuttle services to and from the airport, so it’s a good idea to check with your accommodation in advance to see if this service is available. If not, you’ll have four other reliable transportation options to easily reach the city center. The airport is located about 3 miles from Papeete’s vibrant heart, centered around Place Vai'ete, a lively waterfront square. This bustling area is home to key attractions like Le Marché de Papeete and the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral.

• Taxis: Taxis are available 24/7 outside the terminal and provide a direct, convenient way to reach Papeete. The ride usually takes about 6 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares typically range from €16 to €20 (~$18-$22).
• Car Rentals: Renting a car is a great choice if you plan to venture beyond Papeete and explore other parts of Tahiti. Several car rental agencies operate at PPT. The average price for renting an economy car is around €35-€50 (~$38-$55) per day, while premium cars typically range from €88-€120 (~$85-$132) per day, depending on the season and availability.
• “Navette Aéroport” Buses: Buses run between the airport and Papeete, making them the most budget-friendly option at just €1.5 (~$1.5). This convenient service operates regularly, with a travel time of 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. The bus stop is located near the Tahiti Airport exit, with clear signs pointing the way. Keep in mind, buses run from Monday to Saturday between 5 am and 6 pm.
• Private Transfers: Opting for the Tahiti Airport transfer offered by trusted transportation companies ensures a comfortable and reliable start to your holiday. With local English-speaking drivers, you'll be greeted at the Arrivals Hall and assisted with your luggage. During the ride, your driver can share local tips and recommendations, allowing you to relax and enjoy the trip. Fares are typically around €36 ($40) during the day and €43 ($47) at night.

Best 3 airlines for business class flights to Papeete

Selecting the best airline for your business class flight from Los Angeles to Papeete requires considering multiple factors. They include route efficiency, pricing, seat comfort, baggage policies, and access to premium lounges. The following options provide excellent value for money, offering direct flights and competitive fares. Now, let's dive into the other important considerations:

Air Tahiti Nui Business Class

• Airport Services: Travelers flying from LAX to PPT enjoy dedicated check-in, expedited security, access to the Star Alliance Lounge at Tom Bradley Terminal, and priority boarding and baggage handling. On your return from Papeete, note that check-in opens 3.5 hours before departure, and counters are arranged by flight, not carrier. Also, there’s no early check-in or baggage drop-off for late-night flights, so plan accordingly if you need to check out of your hotel at noon.
• Lounge Offerings: In recent years, travelers have often noted that the Salon Poerava business class lounge at PPT feels outdated. It also offers limited food options and no shower facilities, and has been undergoing renovations. While some improvements may have been made, it still tends to fall short of typical business class lounge expectations. We recommend checking recent reviews, and if they remain negative, consider skipping the lounge. Instead, consider opting for extra time at your hotel or dining at a nearby restaurant before heading to the airport.
• Baggage Allowance: All cabin baggage must not exceed 45 inches in total dimensions. Business class travelers are permitted one carry-on bag weighing up to 26.6 lbs, along with one personal item. For checked baggage, the maximum allowed weight is 70.5 lbs per bag. Any baggage exceeding this weight must be shipped as cargo. Additionally, checked baggage must not exceed 62.2 inches in total size. Business class passengers are allowed two checked bags.
• Cabin and Seating: The airline's fleet consists solely of Boeing 787-9s, known as Tahitian Dreamliners, flying daily between French Polynesia and the world. The business class cabin features a 2-2-2 layout across five rows. Seats provide 60 inches of space and convert into a fully flat 78-inch bed. Each seat includes a touch screen remote, reading light, power outlet, two USB ports, storage space, a privacy divider, and a mattress topper for added comfort. Amenities include a thick blanket, soft pillow, and a luxury accessory kit. The cabin's colors evoke the white sands and turquoise waters of the lagoon.
• Food and Beverages: Each seat typically comes with a bottle of water. Pre-departure drinks, like orange juice or a coconut rum cocktail, are served in a glass. For late evening flights, a light supper is offered after takeoff, followed by a full breakfast before landing. Beverage options can be viewed on the IFE screen, and Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne is often served freely. Supper might include dishes like poultry terrine, smoked salmon, vegetable macédoine, and a strawberry pistachio tartlet. During the flight, a snack basket is available in the galley. Before breakfast, expect a hot towel and juice. Then enjoy a hot meal with options like omelets, sandwiches, yogurt, croissants, and fruit, with refills on coffee and juice.
• Business Class Upgrade Options: Air Tahiti Nui offers several options for upgrading to business class. Passengers can bid for an upgrade using the Plusgrade auction system. They also can use frequent flier miles from partner programs like American Airlines AAdvantage® (80,000 miles) or Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan (60,000 miles) for flights between LAX and PPT. Additionally, upgrade offers may be available at check-in or within 48 hours of departure, based on availability. Occasionally, Air Tahiti Nui also runs promotions allowing for discounted business class upgrades when seats are available closer to the departure date.

Delta Air Lines Business Class

• Airport Services: The airline offers Delta One as its business class product on international flights, which is the airline's highest level of service on these routes. Delta One passengers traveling from LAX to PPT enjoy several perks. They include access to dedicated check-in counters, expedited security screening through TSA PreCheck or priority security lanes, access to the Delta Sky Club, and priority boarding and baggage handling.
• Lounge Offerings: At LAX, Delta One travelers can enjoy the Delta Sky Club in Terminal 3, which offers amenities like an indoor/outdoor double bar, the SkyDeck® (an outdoor terrace), premium showers, and views of the Hollywood Hills. In addition to the Sky Club, travelers also have access to partner lounges, such as the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse in Terminal 3. At PPT, Delta One passengers can access the Salon Poerava business class lounge, which was described in our overview of Air Tahiti Nui’s lounge offerings.
• Baggage Allowance: Delta allows carry-on bags at no additional cost. As with most airlines, you're limited to one personal item and one carry-on that fits in the overhead bin. Delta One travelers flying from LAX to PPT are entitled to check two bags for free, each weighing up to 70 lbs, with total dimensions not exceeding 62 linear inches.
• Cabin and Seating: The Boeing 767-300ER is the primary aircraft used on the LAX to PPT route. Delta One business class features 80-inch lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, ensuring every passenger has direct aisle access. However, reviews mention limited storage space and only one charging outlet with a USB port. For solo travelers, seat 3A offers proximity to the front and exclusive access to all three windows. Odd-numbered seats provide a bit more legroom, making them ideal for long-haul flights. Comfort items on your seat include slippers, an amenity kit, a pillow and comforter, over-the-ear headphones, and a water bottle.
• Food and Beverages: All Delta One passengers are offered a choice of juice or sparkling wine as a pre-departure drink. Just before takeoff, the crew hands out a paper menu with main course options and a QR code for the full digital menu. After takeoff, the beverage cart is quickly rolled out, accompanied by snacks like cheese, dried fruit, and nuts. Appetizers typically include soup, salad, and a bun. For the main course, you’ll usually have three options—don’t miss the braised beef short rib with red wine demi-glace, thyme mashed potatoes, and haricot verts. Dessert options, like chocolate-topped ice cream, are also a treat. Throughout the flight, a snack basket with cookies, pistachios, chips, and fresh fruit is offered.
• Business Class Upgrade Options: Upgrades are available to most ticketed passengers, including those in Main Cabin, Delta Comfort+, and Delta Premium Select, but Basic Economy is excluded. These upgrades apply to paid tickets, Pay with Miles, and upgrade certificates. Delta values SkyMiles at roughly 1.07 cents per mile, so a $60 upgrade could cost around 5,600 SkyMiles. While you can often get better value using miles for an award ticket, upgrade certificates (available to Diamond Medallion members) offer a prioritized upgrade request, though they don’t guarantee a seat. If an upgrade isn’t available, the certificate returns to your account for future use.

Air France Business Class

• Airport Services: Air France business class travelers flying from LAX to PPT have access to dedicated check-in counters, can enjoy expedited security screening through designated priority lanes, have access to the newest Air France-KLM Lounge, and receive priority boarding and baggage handling.
• Lounge Offerings: In the summer of 2024, Air France opened a new lounge at LAX in the Tom Bradley Terminal, conveniently located near the boarding gates. This serene and cozy space is perfect for unwinding, grabbing a bite, and immersing yourself in a French-inspired travel experience. The lounge features a dining area highlighting French cuisine, along with a bar offering a variety of French wines, champagnes, spirits, local beers, and cocktails. There’s also a Clarins spa offering three complimentary facial treatments: anti-jet lag, instant detox, and illuminating eye-care, plus a dedicated relaxation area for rest and rejuvenation.
• Baggage Allowance: Business class travelers enjoy a generous allowance of two checked bags, each weighing up to 154 lbs, for a total of 308 lbs. This provides plenty of room for business attire, personal items, and souvenirs. Passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard, with a combined weight limit of up to 40 lbs.
• Cabin and Seating: Air France typically operates the Boeing 777-200 and Boeing 777-300ER on flights from LAX to PPT. Both aircraft feature a 1-2-1 lie-flat seat configuration, ensuring every business class passenger has direct aisle access. The 777-300ER on this route is likely to offer the newer, more luxurious seats, enhancing comfort with a modern design. This variant includes 48 business class suites, elegantly styled in a navy blue and white color scheme for an elevated experience.
• Food and Beverages: Air France offers a unique dining experience by allowing passengers to pre-select meals via the Air France app a few days before the flight. Upon boarding, flight attendants confirm the choices to ensure accuracy. Air France collaborates with Michelin-starred chefs for main courses and desserts, bringing top-tier French gastronomy onboard. The airline emphasizes quality and sustainability, using locally sourced French meats, sustainably fished seafood, and offering vegetarian options from Paris. After takeoff, passengers receive a menu featuring Telmont Champagne and a diverse wine selection curated by the World's Best Sommelier, enhancing the refined dining experience.
• Business Class Upgrade Options: They include paying with cash or using miles. The Flying Blue program is a popular choice, and miles can be earned by flying Air France, KLM, Delta, or other SkyTeam airlines. Flying Blue miles are easy to accumulate as the program partners with major credit card programs, allowing you to transfer points from American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards®, Capital One Miles, and Citi ThankYou points at a 1:1 ratio. For LAX to PPT flights, upgrading from economy to business class typically requires around 40,000 to 60,000 Flying Blue miles per leg. However, it may be higher during peak periods. The best way to check the exact number of miles needed is by logging into your Flying Blue account and entering your flight details for availability.

Getting through Faa’a International Airport for a seamless arrival in Papeete

Faa’a International Airport (PPT) spans approximately 10 acres and serves as the primary gateway to French Polynesia. The airport has a single terminal that accommodates both domestic and international flights, handling around 1.5 million passengers annually. Situated about 3 miles southwest of downtown Papeete, the airport offers a range of essential services, including a few shops, dining options, and car rental services.

Upon arrival, business class passengers benefit from priority disembarkation and baggage handling, ensuring they are among the first to retrieve their luggage, reducing wait times. The airport’s compact layout makes it easy to navigate, with clear signage guiding passengers through customs and baggage claim. Various transportation options are available. They include taxis, private transfers, and buses, offering convenient access to the city center. For those connecting to domestic or inter-island flights, PPT offers a smooth transfer process, ensuring an easy continuation of your journey through French Polynesia.

Expert tips for an unforgettable and hassle-free journey to French Polynesia

• Select Your Travel Dates Thoughtfully: The peak tourist season in French Polynesia runs from June to August. The weather is warm and dry, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 85°F. This period is perfect for enjoying the beaches and water activities, but it also brings higher hotel rates and larger crowds. For fewer tourists and cheaper accommodations, visit during the shoulder seasons. They include April, May, September, and October, when the weather is still pleasant but less busy. The rainy season runs November-March, with higher humidity and occasional downpours.
• Book Ahead for a Stress-Free Trip: Booking essential services in advance ensures a smooth start to your vacation or business trip, eliminating the need to make last-minute arrangements upon arrival. Priceline offers personalized suggestions, including unique stays like private homes, boats, and even yurts. Plus, you can bundle your hotel, flight, and rental car into one package, helping you save money and simplify the booking process.
• Maximize Flexibility: Flexibility with your travel dates can significantly increase your chances of finding a great deal. Consider flights with longer stopovers to save on fares and even explore an extra city during your trip. If you're traveling around holidays but aren't tied to specific dates, flying further from the holiday is often cheaper. For example, if the holiday is on a Monday, flying on the Tuesday before tends to cost less than flying on Friday. Flying on the holiday itself, like Christmas or Thanksgiving, is usually more affordable than the surrounding days.
• Snag the Best Deal on Priceline: Priceline, a reliable online travel agency, ensures you save money with its Best Price Guarantee—if you find a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it. By joining Priceline's free VIP Rewards Program, you can also claim a refund if you discover a better price within 24 hours of booking. It's a simple way to ensure you're always getting the best deal on your travel plans.
• Explore Papeete Before Venturing Further: While the allure of French Polynesia’s paradisiacal islands may tempt you to move on quickly, the vibrant capital of Tahiti is worth a visit before continuing your journey. Stroll through the Marché de Papeete, a bustling market where you can discover local crafts, fresh produce, and tropical flowers. Visit the Musée de la Perle, showcasing the region’s renowned black pearls, or explore the Paofai Gardens, offering stunning views of the waterfront. Indulge in upscale dining at Le Coco's or L’O à la Bouche to savor French-Polynesian fusion cuisine prepared by world-class chefs.

FAQs

What is the flight duration from LAX to Papeete, French Polynesia?

Nonstop flights from LAX to PPT usually take between 8 and 9 hours, depending on the specific route. One-stop flights can vary significantly in duration, ranging from 12 hours to over 50 hours, depending on the number and length of layovers.

What is the key advantage of flying business class to Papeete?

On long-haul flights, having enough space is crucial. Business class typically offers lie-flat beds and direct aisle access, ensuring exceptional comfort throughout your journey. Arriving refreshed allows you to make the most of your first day at your destination. The extended flight time gives you ample opportunity to enjoy all the premium amenities that come with traveling in style.

Which airlines offer the best business class to Papeete?

For business class travelers flying from LAX to PPT, Air France, Delta Air Lines, and Air Tahiti Nui are the top choices. Each offers nonstop flights with lie-flat seats and premium services. Air France stands out with gourmet dining crafted by Michelin-starred chefs and an exclusive lounge experience. Delta Air Lines' Delta One delivers a stable and reliable business class experience, combining comfort with quality service. Air Tahiti Nui offers an authentic Polynesian touch, worth trying and admiring.

Is meal pre-ordering available on business class flights to Papeete?

Yes, it’s available on business class flights from LAX to PPT with Air France, Delta Air Lines, and Air Tahiti Nui. On Air France, business class passengers can pre-select their main course up to 24 hours before departure, ensuring availability and a tailored dining experience. Delta One passengers can also pre-select their meal 7 days to 24 hours before the flight through the airline’s app or website. Air Tahiti Nui allows business class travelers to choose from a curated menu featuring Tahitian-inspired cuisine, though meal pre-selection options may vary.

Which day has the cheapest business class fares to Papeete?

Wednesdays and Saturdays typically offer the lowest business class fares to Papeete. These days tend to have less demand compared to Mondays, Fridays, and Sundays. Traveling during the shoulder seasons—April, May, September, and October—can also help you save while avoiding large crowds. For even better deals, consider booking during the off-peak rainy season, which runs from November to March, when tourist traffic is lower and prices drop further.