(Posted 18th December 2024)
Air Seychelles has confirmed plans to resume flights to Abu Dhabi, effective May next year.
“The capital city of Abu Dhabi has experienced tremendous population growth over the past decade, making it a vibrant year-round destination favoured by Seychellois families for its countless entertainment options. We are excited for the launch and are looking forward to offer our esteemed guests yet another destination to explore. The UAE also remains a crucial inbound tourist market for the destination, and we believe that the conditions are now optimal for the national airline to re-enter and establish a strong presence,” said Charles Johnson, CCO of Air Seychelles.
Relations between Air Seychelles and Etihad Airways became confrontational in 2021, when Etihad Airways withdrew from its 40 percent ownership in Air Seychelles after the latter was unable to meet its debt obligations to the Abu Dhabi-based airline and other bondholders. This left Air Seychelles facing administration during which the airline was challenged to secure its survival. The withdrawal ended a significant alliance that had started in 2012, and the government of Seychelles subsequently resumed full ownership of the airline.
After more than a year of administration, Air Seychelles successfully implemented a rescue plan that enabled it to emerge from financial distress and reach a repayment agreement with Apex Trustees Bondholders, who had invested significantly in the company, securing its future as Seychelles’ flagship carrier.
The addition of the Abu Dhabi route in May next year will add to the Air Seychelles’ existing regional network, which presently includes flights to Colombo, Tel Aviv, Johannesburg, Mumbai, and Mauritius.
