Emirates boosts Madagascar flights to meet robust travel demand
Following Emirates' successful launch to Madagascar in September 2024, the airline will introduce additional flights to the island nation, boosting its schedule from four to six-weekly services, starting 2 April 2025.
The expanded schedule between Dubai and Antananarivo, linked via Mahe, will operate on all days except Mondays.
In response to strong demand for its passenger services between the capital city and Dubai, the boost in operations was announced at a press conference held by Madagascar's Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Tourism, and Emirates in Antananarivo on January 15.
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The move reinforces the airline's commitment to supporting Madagascar's tourism ambitions, including accommodating more leisure visitors and promoting the island destination to global audiences.
According to Viviane Dewa, Madagascar's Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts, Emirates' arrival has been a breath of fresh air for the country's tourism sector. Madagascar targets one million tourists by 2028.
To meet seasonal demand, Emirates recently temporarily increased its services from four to five weekly flights, and the new frequency represents a significant boost to its operations and capacity on the route.
Emirates has supported Madagascar's tourism agenda by promoting it as a top leisure destination to its global network of tour operators. Its efforts have included planning familiarisation trips for 32 of its top travel agencies from major feeder markets to visit the island. Amongst the island's main attractions, Madagascar is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites and is celebrated for its thriving biodiversity.
With the boost to services to Madagascar, Emirates' flights aboard the Boeing 777 aircraft allow additional cargo capacity for imports and exports. The aircraft can hold up to 20 tons of cargo per flight in its belly hold.
