Emirates Lands in Madagascar's Capital City

Emirates made its inaugural landing in Antananarivo, Madagascar. The arrival of flight EK707 was commemorated with a water cannon salute at Ivato International Airport, followed by an exclusive event for VIPs, government officials, industry guests, and media.

His Excellency Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, and the First Lady welcomed the Emirates delegation, headed by Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer; Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations for 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, as well as members of the international media.

Fostering stronger links between the UAE and Madagascar, Mohammad Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers, His Excellency Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports, and Major General Talal Ahmed Al Shangeti, General Director Assistant of Airport Passport Sector, joined the inaugural flight. They were also accompanied by Buti Qurwash, Senior Vice President of Safety & Security at Dubai Airports; Rabie Atieh, CEO of Transguard Group; and Abid Hamza, General Manager of Fast Logistics.

Captain Bruce Pope, a Canadian national, and First Officer Solo Chuk, a Malagasy pilot with 14 years of flying experience with Emirates, led the first flight to Antananarivo. The inaugural flight was almost fully booked, with passengers travelling from Mahe, Seychelles. This was made possible by offering improved travel options through the combined service, allowing two trips to be merged into one.

After the welcome ceremony, Adnan Kazim and senior representatives showcased the Boeing 777-300ER aircraft that will be flying on the route. The aircraft has three classes: eight private suites in First Class, 42 lie-flat seats in Business Class, and 310 spacious seats in Economy Class. They presented the aircraft to His Excellency President Rajoelina, along with a group of dignitaries, government representatives, media, guests, and travel industry members.

Andry Rajoelina, the President of the Republic of Madagascar, stated, "In just four months, with shared determination and hard work, we have successfully launched the long-awaited inaugural flight between Dubai and Antananarivo with Emirates. 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."

Adnan Kazim enthusiastically commented on the start of operations, stating, "Madagascar is a new and exciting destination on our extensive global network. It unlocks a world of natural wonders, rare and diverse wildlife, and a rich, vibrant culture. As the Malagasy government aims to attract one million tourists by 2028 by growing its tourism industry, we proudly support this vision. We enhance connectivity and premium travel options to encourage more international travellers to discover the island."

EK707 departed from Dubai to the Seychelles at 08:55 hrs, arriving in Mahe at 13:35 hrs, and then continued to Antananarivo, landing at 16:50 hrs. The return flight EK708 departed from Antananarivo at 18:35 hrs, landed in Mahe at 22:20 hrs, and took off from Mahe at 23:50 hrs for Dubai, landing at 04:20 hrs the next day. This four-weekly service operates on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday. The flight times have been scheduled to optimize connections to and from key points in Europe, the Far East, West Asia, and the Middle East/GCC, streamlining international travel to and from Madagascar.

Fly Better with Inflight Services

Emirates keeps its global "fly better" promise by offering a great travel experience with added comfort and considerate details in every class. Passengers can enjoy regionally inspired multi-course menus created by award-winning chefs, which are free in every class. During the first flight from Mahe to Antananarivo, First and Business Class passengers were served tropical fruit plates with local fruits and a specially made Vanilla Mojito. This drink was inspired by Madagascar Vanilla and was made with coconut water, mint, lime, rum, and soda water.

Emirates is the only airline operating in Madagascar, with three dedicated travel classes, including First Class. The flights on the Mahe-Antananarivo route offer true in-flight luxury with a private hotel room experience. Passengers travelling in First Class can enjoy exquisite à la carte cuisine and premium beverages in private closed-door suites.

Emirates' inflight entertainment platform, ice, is available on every screen in all classes. It offers over 6,500 entertainment channels in multiple languages. French speakers can enjoy 363 Hollywood movies dubbed in French or choose from 62 French original films such as Anatomie d'une chute, The 400 Blows, The Chorus, Jules and Jim. Music lovers can tune in to albums and playlists featuring artists such as Aya Nakamura, Dadju, Maître Gims, Kendji Girac, Vitaa & Slimane, Johnny Hallyday, Françoise Hardy, and Michel Sardou.

Explore Treasure Island

Madagascar is the world's fourth-largest island, offering a unique experience for adventurous travellers. The island is home to a wealth of precious biodiversity, with some of the world's rarest plant and animal species. Additionally, Madagascar boasts three UNESCO World Heritage sites, providing visitors with breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and unforgettable wildlife excursions.

Madagascar promotes ecotourism to protect its natural environment. Visitors can experience nature, engage with the local culture, and help preserve the environment.