Air Seychelles direct flights to Europe are expected after a decision taken by the government during a meeting of the Economic Monitoring Committee on Monday.
The government approved a measure allowing Air Seychelles to lease a long-haul aircraft capable of flying directly to Europe without a stop.
According to the airline’s chief executive officer, Sandy Benoiton, the move will increase transport capacity.
“This will increase the capacity during this time both for passengers and cargo,” Mr Benoiton said.
He added that the aircraft will also give travellers another option when flying between Europe and Seychelles.
“It will offer an alternative option for any passengers wishing to come to Seychelles from Europe without going through a transit hub in the Middle East,” he said.
Meanwhile, the airline is preparing its flight schedule. Because the decision was taken early on Monday morning, Air Seychelles is expected to publish schedules for flights between Seychelles and Europe very soon.
Mr Benoiton also provided an update on air connectivity between Seychelles and Europe.
The airline currently operates flights between Seychelles and Europe to support visitor arrivals and maintain international connectivity.
Mr Benoiton said the operations are being carried out with the national economy in mind.
“The country’s economy comes first in this exercise that we are doing,” Mr Benoiton said.
He added that the airline may operate additional flights if demand increases.
This development follows the war currently taking place in the Gulf. Many tourists from Seychelles’ principal tourism markets in Europe usually transit through the region before travelling to Seychelles.