Air France launches direct flights between Los Angeles, New York and the French Riviera for the Cannes Festivals

Air France has announced special direct flights connecting Los Angeles and New York to the French Riviera (Nice) for the Cannes Film Festival and Cannes Lions Festival in 2026.

Los Angeles (LAX) → Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
May 11, 2026: flight AF041 – leaves Los Angeles at 14:00, arrives in Nice at 10:35 the following day;
May 25, 2026: flight AF040 – leaves Nice at 13:15, arrives in Los Angeles at 16:30 the same day.

New York (JFK) → Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
June 20 and 21, 2026: flight AF043 – leaves New York-JFK at 16:30, arrives in Nice at 10:35 the following day;
June 25 and 26, 2026: flight AF042 – leaves Nice at 12:00, arrives at New York-JFK at 15:00 the same day.

- Timing: Operated during May–June 2026, aligning with the Cannes Film Festival and Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity.
- Aircraft: Long-haul widebody jets offering Business, Premium Economy, and Economy cabins.

Why It Matters
- For Travelers: Direct access to the French Riviera without transiting through Paris, saving time and offering convenience.
- For Air France: Strengthens its role as the airline of choice for cultural and creative industries.
- For Cannes: Enhances global connectivity, making it easier for Hollywood and international talent to attend.

Festival Connection
- Cannes Film Festival (May 2026): One of the world’s most prestigious film events, attracting global stars, directors, and producers.
- Cannes Lions Festival (June 2026): The leading global event for creativity in marketing, advertising, and communications.

Strategic Impact
- Reinforces Air France’s premium positioning in the U.S.–France market.
- Supports tourism and business travel to the French Riviera.
- Highlights Air France’s commitment to cultural partnerships and global events.

This move is both practical and symbolic—bringing Hollywood closer to Cannes and ensuring that the world’s creative leaders can reach the Riviera with ease.