Political crisis in Madagascar paralyses international air traffic
Antananarivo without flights from major global airlines after attempted military coup
Madagascar is facing its most severe political crisis in a decade., after days of protests over shortages of basic necessities escalated into a military rebellion. The situation culminated on October 13 when President Andry Rajoelina left the country, claiming he had been the target of an assassination attempt.
Flights suspended for safety reasons
Due to the escalation of violence and uncertainty, several international airlines have temporarily suspended their flights to the capital, Antananarivo. Among them are Air France, Emirates and Air Mauritius, which they made for security reasons.
Air France has cancelled all flights between Paris (CDG) and Antananarivo until at least October 17th, while Emirates has suspended its Dubai route „until further notice“. Air Mauritius suspended flights on October 13th, noting that the decision to resume will depend on safety assessments.
Some carriers are still flying
Unlike them, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Austral, Kenya Airways and Airlink They have decided to temporarily resume traffic, with enhanced safety measures and daily monitoring of the situation. Airlink stated that it is acting in coordination with the South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasising the complexity of risk assessments in air traffic.
A crisis with historical roots
The unrest began on 25 September with protests against water and electricity shortages, and on 11 October, part of an elite military unit CAPSAT joined the protestors, claiming he was taking control of the armed forces. Parliament then voted to Recall of President Rajoelina, while rebel officers announced the formation of a transitional government and the calling of a referendum within two years.
The African Union (AU) held an emergency meeting and called for return to the constitutional order, while the international community watches events with great concern.
Impact on the economy and supply
The temporary suspension of international traffic further complicates the supply of the islands and the movement of the population, which has been suffering for years due to poverty and poor public services. Madagascar Airlines jstill operates domestic flights, albeit with frequent delays and diversions.
Given the deep political division and history of military coups, the future of Madagascar's air travel – and tourism – remains uncertain.
