The New Caledonian press says police were called to Noumea's Magenta domestic airport as tempers flared after a strike grounded the domestic carrier.
Noumea's daily newspaper says about 400 Aircal passengers were left stranded by the action of civil aviation officials who followed a strike called by those employed at the territory's international airport.
It says this led to angry scenes and may have legal consequences.
There is concern that passengers who fail to make a timely transfer to connecting international flights may be forced to buy new tickets.
