Emirates’ first flight to Madagascar...

Destination says service will help it achieve one million visitors by 2028

UAE flagship carrier Emirates made its inaugural landing at Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, this week.

Upon touching down at Ivato International Airport on 4 September 2024 the aircraft was welcomed with a water cannon salute and by VIPs, government officials, industry members and media.

Flights will operate four times a week, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, via a linked service with the Seychelles. The service will depart from Dubai to the Seychelles at 8:55am, arriving in Mahe at 1:35pm (local time), and will continue to Antananarivo, landing at 4:50pm.

The return flight departs Antananarivo at 6:45pm, landing in Mahe at 10:20pm. The flight then takes off from Mahe at 11:50pm to Dubai, landing at 4:20am the following day.

The Emirates delegation, led by Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, was welcomed by Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, and the First Lady.

The delegation also included Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Central Asia; Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo; and Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Emirates Airport Services Outstation and Business Support.

To strengthen ties between the UAE and Madagascar, the inaugural flight was also joined by Mohammad Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers; Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports; Major-General Talal Ahmed Al Shangeti, Assistant Director-General of the Airport Passport Sector; Buti Qurwash, Senior Vice President of Safety and Security at Dubai Airports; Rabie Atieh, CEO of Transguard Group; and Abid Hamza, CEO of Fast Logistics.

"In just four months, through shared determination and hard work, we have successfully launched this long-awaited inaugural flight between Dubai and Antananarivo with Emirates,” said President Rajoelina.

“This is a historic moment for Madagascar, and I am convinced it will act as a catalyst for tourism and economic development in our country. Madagascar opens its skies to Emirates, and through Emirates, Madagascar opens itself to the world.”

Emirates Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, Adnan Kazim, said: "Madagascar is an exciting new destination on our global network, offering natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and a rich, vibrant culture.

“As the Malagasy government aims to attract one million tourists by 2028, we are proud to support this vision by enhancing connectivity and premium travel options, encouraging more international travellers to discover the island.”

For more information, visit www.emirates.com

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