On Sept. 4 2024, the first flight from Dubai to Antananarivo operated in the boeing 777-300ER. The flight almost at full capacity arrived at Ivato International Airport and was greeted with the traditional water cannon salute to mark the historic moment. This marks the first flight operated between the two destinations, marking a pivotal step towards partnership between countries. The flight route was from Dubai via the Seychelles and arriving in Antananarivo, carrying various VIP and delegates on board.
More about the service
Emirates has offered the service for up to four times a week, while providing state-of-the-art facilities on the Boeing 777-300ER. The service offers more than 350 seats which includes 310 economy class seats, 8 first class suites, as well as 42 business class fully flat recliner seats. To add to the already established luxury of Emirates aircrafts, the service is also fitted with Emirates’ award winning in-flight ‘ice’ (information, connectivity and entertainement) system that boasts music, movies, games and more than 6,000 channels to pick from.
Why is this a pivotal step?
This route is considered to be a pivotal step for Madagascar as it fosters a stronger relationship that bridges it into the markets of the Middle East, as well as Asia and Europe. Emirates plays a crucial role in the vision of tourism for Madagascar and its ability to achieve and surpass those goals. In 2019, the amount of tourists that visited the country accounted for 500,000. Keeping this in mind, Madagascar aims to achieve an amount of 1 million tourists by the year 2028. This number can be achieved faster by creating a partnership with Emirates as well as the UAE, strengthening this relationship would improve economic links between the two countries, and Emirates may possibly extend its offers by deploying Emirates SkyCargo on these flights as part of a new agreement.
His Excellency, Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, shared his views on the moment:
This is a historic moment for Madagascar, and I am convinced that it will act as a catalyst and a true lever for tourism and economic development in our country. Madagascar opens its skies to Emirates, and through Emirates, Madagascar opens itself to the world. Together, let’s continue to dream, build, and grow for the good of our nation.
Tell us what you think about this? Will this help with Madagascar’s vision of enhancing tourism goals?
