Airlines suspend Madagascar services following unrest and army revolt

Tuesday, 13 Oct, 2025 0

Since late September, Madagascar island has been experiencing social unrest, leading to demonstrations in several cities. To ensure public safety, Malagasy authorities have imposed a curfew in certain areas, particularly in Antananarivo. The situation became more tense over the week-end.

Reuters reported that Madagascar‘s presidency highlighted on Sunday an attempt to grab power by force, as more soldiers as well as forces from the National Gendarmerie threw their support behind a two-weeks long youth-led protest movement.

Air France, Emirates, Kenya Airways and Turkish Airlines to suspend temporarily flights

The uncertainty was behind Air France-KLM decision to suspend flights between Paris-Charles de Gaulle airport and Madagascar’s capital, Antananarivo, from October 11 to October 13 ‘due to the security situation” on the ground, the airline said in an e-mailed statement on Sunday.

Emirates also announced on Monday to suspend Dubai–Madagascar flights until further notice amid ongoing unrest. Kenya Airways and Turkish Airlines also cancelled their flights for this Monday. Air Austral (La Reunion Island) still flies to Nosy Be but suspended flights to Antananarivo.

Madagascar Airlines to assure domestic routes

National carrier Madagascar Airlines is also publishing every day an updated schedule, adjusting frequencies according to the evolving situation. Overnight flights have been rescheduled during the day to avoid traveling after sunset. Passengers affected by cancellations are automatically rebooked on the next available flights. The carrier offers free re-booking on the base fare, subject to availability in the same booking class, within one year from the original ticket issuance date. Taxes will be recalculated at the time of reissuance.

Change of destination are permitted without penalty, with fare adjustment if necessary, within one year from the original ticket issuance date. The airline also offers an issuance of a credit valid for 12 months, usable across our entire network.

The management of Antananarivo International Airport has clarified that the platform remains open to air traffic, although continuous monitoring of the situation is being ensured. Only the Civil Aviation Authority of Madagascar (ACM) is authorized to announce a possible closure if tensions were to intensify. Travelers can keep informed by checking the official airport website: https://www.antananarivo-airport.aero/