Our Journey
Lulutai Airline's story is a journey that is intertwined with two of the bigger events in recent world history. Lulutai Airlines was established as a company, by the Government of Tonga in 2020 - right in the middle of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Named "Lulutai" by His Majesty King Tupou VI, the cultural reference is to a powerful seabird called the Lulutai. The Lulutai successfully hunts over the vast ocean, yet willingly shares its catch with smaller and weaker birds. Due to the Covid-19 related economic downturn and lockdowns that affected airlines worldwide, Tonga was without domestic flights for almost six months in 2020. With no private investment available during a time of great uncertainty, the Tonga Government took the bold and difficult step of establishing Lulutai Airlines Limited as a company. The purpose was for Lulutai Airlines to quickly provide domestic air services for Tonga. In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, there was an urgent need for reliable air transport for medical supplies and personnel, medical evacuations, urgent assistance, and continued connectivity with the outer islands. Then came the Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Ha'apai volcanic eruption and resulting tsunami in 2022. Again, the newly formed Lulutai Airlines stepped up to provide flight services across Tonga to support the nation's recovery efforts. Today, Lulutai Airline's journey still continues, with hard fought lessons and experiences to help it grow stronger. For the future, Lulutai Airlines grows through the work of its incredibly hard working teams in every department across the company. Every single day (except for Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day!), by the grace of God, we work to ensure each flight is delivered safely, reliable and affordable. Lulutai Airlines works hard to make your journey possible. Support us to continue ours.