Airlink, has expanded its services to Madagascar with the introduction of flights between Johannesburg and Nosy-Be. This route comes as a welcome addition to Airlink’s network, offering passengers enhanced connectivity and facilitating economic, trade, and tourism ties between South Africa and Madagascar.
On June 25, 2023, Airlink successfully launched its inaugural flight from Johannesburg to Nosy-Be, marking the commencement of regular service. The airline operates this route once a week, utilizing the modern Embraer E170 aircraft. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of Sunday departures and arrivals.
Airlink’s flight schedule on the Johannesburg – Nosy-Be route is as follows:
– Flight 4Z246: Departure from Johannesburg (JNB) at 09:10, Arrival at Nosy-Be (NOS) at 13:40 on Sundays.
– Flight 4Z247: Departure from Nosy-Be (NOS) at 14:25, Arrival at Johannesburg (JNB) at 17:10 on Sundays.
Enhanced Connectivity with Antananarivo
This recent expansion to Nosy-Be comes on the heels of Airlink’s resumption of flights between Johannesburg and Antananarivo. Following the lifting of a three-year ban on commercial flights between South Africa and Madagascar, Airlink reinstated its services on January 30, 2023.
The ban on commercial flights was initially imposed due to a dispute between the two nations over the confiscation of 73.5 kilograms of smuggled gold and $20,000 from passengers arriving from Madagascar in December 2020. The Malagasy government demanded the return of the seized items and the extradition of its nationals involved in the smuggling.
Airlink’s Role in Reconnecting South Africa and Madagascar
As the designated South African carrier to Madagascar, Airlink played a vital role in re-establishing air services between the two countries. The lifting of the ban allows Airlink to resume its crucial economic, trade, and tourism connections. The airline’s CEO and Managing Director, Rodger Foster, earlier expressed excitement about rebuilding ties between South Africa and Madagascar through enhanced air travel.
