Air Mauritius Plans to Introduce Flights from Durban
Category Travel
Looking ahead, travelers can once again expect to be able to fly directly between Durban and the island of Mauritius.
The airline used to operate this route (which also offered convenient connections to India) a few years ago.
AIR MAURITIUS
Air Mauritius says that adding Durban flights to its route network is highly likely for the Indian Ocean airline.
At an industry event held in Johannesburg, an Air Mauritius representative stated that the launch of Duban flights should be expected in the near future.
SCALING UP
Like other airlines, Air Mauritius has endured some challenges in the past few months and years.
However, the airline is scaling up operations and aims to return to normalcy by the end of this year.
AIRCRAFT SHORTAGE
The airline's Country Sales Manager for Southern Africa, Nooriena Davids said the restoration of its schedules and maintenance of its fleet were the airline's priorities for 2024, according to Travelnews.
While Air Mauritius awaits delivery of an additional A350 in 2025, it will continue leasing aircraft to ensure sufficient capacity on its routes.
DURBAN ROUTE
The route will be a popular one since Durban and Mauritius are both home to large communities with Indian heritage. Furthermore, Mauritius is highly favoured by South Africans.
The exotic island located in the Indian Ocean is a mere four-hour flight from SA, and it offers visa-free entry to South African passport holders.
DIRECT FLIGHTS
Direct flights from Durban would be beneficial for locals and foreigners who wish to fly from South Africa's third-largest city to the Indian Ocean island.
Mauritius is currently reached directly only from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Air Mauritius operates direct flights from both Johannesburg and Cape Town to the island.
South African Airways and FlySafair also offer direct flights to Mauritius, from their hubs in Johannesburg. There are currently no direct flights between Durban and Mauritius.
Author: Lorne Philpot