Emirates has increased its flights to Madagascar – from four to six weekly services – starting April 2. The decision follows strong demand since the airline launched its route to the island nation in September 2024.

This was announced at a press conference in Antananarivo by Emirates and Madagascar’s transport and tourism ministries. Officials highlighted the move as a step towards improving air connectivity supporting the country’s tourism and trade sectors.

Essa Sulaiman Ahmad, Emirates’ Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for West Asia and Indian Ocean, said: “The additional flights will provide greater connectivity and convenience for travellers while strengthening trade links between Madagascar and the UAE. With tourism to Madagascar continuing to grow, these new services will also contribute to the development of local businesses and communities.”

The expanded schedule will operate on all days except Mondays with flights routed via Mahé, Seychelles. The airline’s Boeing 777 aircraft will continue to serve the route.

Madagascar’s Minister of Transport and Meteorology, Manambahoaka Valéry Fitzgerald Ramonjavelo, welcomed the additional flights: “This increase in frequency is a strong vote of confidence in Madagascar as a destination and a step forward in strengthening ties between our two countries.”

Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts Viviane Dewa noted the impact of improved connectivity on the country’s goal of reaching one million tourists by 2028. “Direct flights by Emirates connect Madagascar to over 140 global destinations – significantly enhancing our ability to promote the island and grow our tourism sector.”

Emirates has supported Madagascar’s tourism goals by organising familiarisation trips for travel agents and promoting the island’s unique biodiversity and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The airline has also recorded robust inbound demand from countries including France, the UK, mainland China and Japan.