Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles boost France-Indian Ocean connectivity in the face of Gulf disruptions

While the geopolitical situation in the Middle East continues to disrupt traditional air routes, particularly those via the Gulf hubs, Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles are taking proactive measures to maintain and strengthen connectivity with France. These initiatives aim to ensure the continuity of tourism flows to their respective destinations, Mauritius and the Seychelles, in the face of increasingly uncertain European connectivity.

Air Mauritius increases capacity to Paris

From March 23, 2026, Air Mauritius will be adding an additional direct flight between Mauritius and Paris (MK014), departing from Mauritius at 10:35 pm and arriving in Paris at 7:35 am the following day. The Mauritian airline is thus proposing an expanded offer with three additional rotations on April 1, 8 and 15, 2026 (MK016), offering over 2,300 additional seats on this route operated by Airbus A350. These flights are marketed in codeshare with Air France, further strengthening the collaboration between the two carriers.

Air Mauritius already operates between six and seven direct flights a week between Mauritius and Paris. According to the company, these additional flights will make it possible.., «to offer passengers more travel options while ensuring the continuity of its operations to Europe».». The company also states «continue to monitor international developments in order to adapt its operations if necessary».». This strategic decision is in response to European travelers' search for reliable direct alternatives to Mauritius, a destination prized for its lagoon and hotel facilities.

Travelers wishing to book their tickets can consult flight comparators such as Promovols or Kayak to identify the best deals. Fares for a round trip in economy class between Paris and Mauritius currently start from €728, taxes included, with sample dates available in September 2026, as well as in March, June and August.

Air Seychelles launches temporary Mahé-Paris service

For its part, Air Seychelles is introducing a temporary offer to meet the growing demand for direct connectivity from France. From March 20, 2026, and for an initial period of one month, the Seychelles airline will offer three direct flights a week between Mahé and Paris-CDG. These flights will be operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft configured for 290 passengers (28 in business class and 262 in economy class). The frequency could be increased to four weekly rotations, depending on demand.

The managing director of Air Seychelles, quoted by the Tourmag media, stressed the importance of this new route: «The introduction of direct flights to Paris represents an important milestone for Air Seychelles and for the country's international connectivity, especially at this time. France has always been a key market for Seychelles, and this service will provide a convenient and comfortable travel option for both visitors and Seychellois travelers, while supporting the continued growth of our tourism industry.»

A coordinated response to disturbances

The Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles initiatives respond to a common challenge: the closure or restriction of airspace in the Middle East has considerably reduced the capacity of Gulf airlines, traditionally major players on routes between Europe and the Indian Ocean. French passengers, a key outbound market for both Mauritius and the Seychelles, are thus faced with a reduced offer and potentially longer journey times.

By offering direct or enhanced flights, the two Indian Ocean airlines aim to provide a fast, comfortable alternative, avoiding potentially disruptive stopovers. These measures, although temporary for Mauritius (until mid-April) and for an initial period of one month for the Seychelles, are designed to bridge the gap in connectivity while gauging the market's appetite for these direct routes.

Tourism remains an essential economic pillar for these two island nations. France, one of the main outbound markets, benefits directly from these capacity reinforcements.

Air Mauritius relies on the loyalty of its leisure and business customers, thanks to its partnership with Air France. For its part, Air Seychelles is highlighting the comfort of its Boeing 787 to attract travelers in search of unspoilt, exotic destinations.

The two Indian Ocean airlines remain vigilant to developments in the international situation, and are ready to adjust their schedules if necessary. For the time being, these announcements provide a concrete and reassuring response for French travellers, confirming that the skies between Paris and the Indian Ocean remain accessible despite the geopolitical turbulence.