Air Austral

Air Austral is a Réunion‑based carrier that operates a mix of regional island services and longer intercontinental flights; from a traveler’s perspective it functions as a regional airline that also runs scheduled long‑haul routes. The airline’s network is centered on connections within the western Indian Ocean and on links between Réunion and metropolitan France, making it a practical choice for travel to and from the French overseas region. Codeshare partnerships and commercial agreements broaden the airline’s reach beyond its own services.

Where Air Austral Flies

Operating from its main base at Roland Garros (RUN) on Réunion, Air Austral focuses on connecting Réunion with nearby Indian Ocean destinations as well as providing direct long‑haul services to mainland France and other long‑range markets. Shorter routes use turboprops and 737s to link island destinations and regional capitals, while the 777 handles intercontinental services; schedules and frequencies can be seasonal. The carrier extends its network reach through commercial partnerships and codeshares with other airlines, which helps connect passengers beyond its own operated routes.

Hubs

• Roland Garros Airport · RUN

Aircraft and Cabin Classes

Air Austral’s fleet mixes turboprops and narrowbodies for regional work with a widebody for longer sectors: ATR 72 turboprops and Boeing 737-800s are used on shorter island and regional routes, while Boeing 777 widebodies serve the airline’s long‑haul services. Cabin offerings are conventional for a carrier of this profile, with an economy cabin across most aircraft and a higher‑class cabin on long‑haul 777 services; some aircraft also provide extra‑legroom or premium economy‑style seating depending on route and configuration. Travelers should not expect uniform seat types across all aircraft, so check the specific seatmap for your flight when booking.

Aircraft types operated: ATR 72, Boeing 737-800, Boeing 777

Tips for Flying Air Austral

• Always check the fare inclusions for your specific booking because baggage allowances and seat-selection rules can vary between regional ATR/737 services and long‑haul flights on the 777.
• Book Réunion (Roland Garros) to mainland France travel well in advance during Southern Hemisphere summer and European holiday periods when demand rises.
• On turboprop flights (ATR 72) pack carry‑on luggage to fit compact overhead bins and be prepared for tighter space and weight limits than on jet services.
• Confirm lounge access before travel-access is typically linked to ticket class or elite status rather than blanket for all passengers on long‑haul flights.