Air Bourbon was a regional airline based on the French island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean. Founded in the early 2000s, it aimed to provide scheduled passenger services linking Réunion with neighboring islands and destinations in the region, competing primarily with Air Austral. The airline faced significant financial and operational difficulties throughout its short existence, struggling to establish a sustainable route network against established competitors. It operated with a small fleet and limited resources, which contributed to its inability to achieve long-term viability. Air Bourbon ultimately ceased operations, having failed to secure the necessary financial backing and regulatory approvals to maintain its services. Its closure left Air Austral as the dominant carrier in the Réunion market.