Aeroporto di Rangiroa (RGI)
Rangiroa Airport (IATA: RGI, ICAO: NTTG) is a domestic airport located on Rangiroa, one of the largest atolls in the Tuamotus chain in French Polynesia. Nestled in the azure waters of the South Pacific, this picturesque airport serves as the primary gateway to the stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear lagoons of Rangiroa. The airport is situated approximately 5 kilometers southeast of the main village of Avatoru, providing critical connectivity to the remote atoll.
Built in the mid-20th century, Rangiroa Airport has grown to accommodate increasing tourism, especially from those eager to explore the underwater wonders that make this region world-renowned. It operates mainly as a regional airport, linking Rangiroa with the more centrally located Faa'a International Airport in Papeete, Tahiti. Air Tahiti, the primary airline serving the airport, provides regular flights that cater to the flow of tourists and locals alike.
Despite its relatively modest size, Rangiroa Airport handles a significant number of flights and passengers each year. The airstrip features a single paved runway, which is sufficient to accommodate the turboprop aircraft commonly used for inter-island travel. On average, the airport manages several flights daily, with annual passenger traffic reaching into the tens of thousands. The majority of these passengers are tourists drawn to Rangiroa's exceptional diving sites, vibrant marine life, and tranquil island atmosphere.
Rangiroa Airport is more than just a transit point; it is the beginning of an unforgettable journey into one of the world's most captivating natural paradises. Its efficient connectivity and strategic location make it an indispensable asset to French Polynesia's tourism infrastructure.