Air Tahiti Nui has appointed aviation executive Lionel Guérin as its new Chief Executive Officer, with the appointment taking effect on February 11, 2026.
The airline’s Board of Directors confirmed the leadership change, placing Guérin in charge of the long-haul carrier, which connects French Polynesia with international destinations.
Hiro Arbelot, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Air Tahiti Nui, said the airline had chosen a leader with experience managing airline transformations.
“We selected an entrepreneur — an experienced and innovative leader with a clear methodology, a long-term vision, and a proven track record in managing complex transformations. In an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving aviation landscape, Air Tahiti Nui required clear, disciplined, and unifying leadership.”
He also acknowledged the airline’s outgoing chief executive.
“I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to Philippe Marie for his commitment, professionalism, and strong sense of responsibility throughout his tenure.”
Guérin said the airline plays an important role connecting French Polynesia with the rest of the world.
“Air Tahiti Nui is far more than an airline. It is a vital link between French Polynesia and the rest of the world, and a symbol of openness, pride, and responsibility. I am honored by the trust placed in me and fully committed to leading, together with all our teams, a path of sustainable performance that remains true to Polynesian values and identity.”
Guérin joined the airline’s Board of Directors in April 2025 and now takes on responsibility for leading its next phase.
He brings decades of aviation experience, including senior roles at Air France, where he worked as Technical Director, Captain, Flight Instructor and Head of Operational Standards before later becoming Deputy Chief Executive Officer.
He also founded several airlines, including Airlinair and Transavia France, and served as Founder and Chairman of HOP!.
In late 2024, Guérin joined Air Moana to support its development and work with local aviation teams.
He is also Founder and President of the Aéro Biodiversité association, an environmental organisation established in 2015, and has been awarded the Legion of Honour and the French National Order of Merit.
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