EK707, the world’s largest international airline, has landed in Antananarivo, Madagascar for the first time. The arrival of EK707 was celebrated with a water canon salute at Ivato International Airport, with an exclusive event for VIPs, government officials, industry guests, and media. His Excellency, Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar and the First Lady greeted the Emirates delegation, led by Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer; Adil Al Ghaith, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations, Gulf, Middle East and Central Asia; Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo and Sami Aqil Abdullah, Senior Vice President of Emirates Airport Services Outstation and Business Support, as well as international media.
Mohammad Lootah, President, CEO of Dubai Chambers, His Excellency Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports and Major General Talal Ahmed Al Shangeti, General Director Assistant of Airport Passport Sector along with Buti Qurwash, Senior Vice President Safety & Security at Dubai Airports; Rabie Atieh, CEO Transguard Group and Abid Hamza, CEO of Fast Logistics also joined the inaugural flight to foster stronger links between the UAE and Madagascar.
Canadian national Captain Bruce Pope and First Officer Solo Chuk, a Malagasy pilot who has been flying for Emirates for 14 years commanded the inaugural flight to Antananarivo. . The inaugural flight operated with an almost full passenger load from Mahe, the Seychelles, taking advantage of the enhanced travel options available on the linked service by merging two trips into one.
His Excellency, Andry Rajoelina, President of the Republic of Madagascar, said, “In just four months, through shared determination and hard work, we have successfully launched this long-awaited inaugural flight between Dubai and Antananarivo with Emirates. This is a historic moment for Madagascar, and I am convinced that it will act as a catalyst and a true lever for tourism and economic development in our country. Madagascar opens its skies to Emirates, and through Emirates, Madagascar opens itself to the world. Together, let’s continue to dream, build, and grow for the good of our nation.”
Adnan Kazim further said, “Madagascar is a new and exciting destination on our vast global network, unlocking a world of natural wonders, rare and diverse wildlife, and a rich, vibrant culture. As the Malagasy government continues to grow its tourism industry with the aim to attract one million tourists by 2028, we proudly support this vision by enhancing connectivity and premium travel options to encourage more international travellers to discover the island.”
We would like to thank the Malagasy authorities, including the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Tourism and Ravinala Airports Group, as well as all stakeholders and authorities in Madagascar and the UAE for their support and we look forward to providing our unique product and award-winning service to travellers who have chosen Madagascar as their destination of choice for leisure and business.”
Emirates is the only airline operating to Madagascar, enhancing premium travel options with three dedicated classes of travel, including First Class, featuring true inflight luxury, on the Mahe-Antananarivo leg. Akin to a private hotel room in the clouds, passengers traveling in First Class can indulge in sumptuous ala carte cuisine and free-flowing premium beverages in private closed doors suites.
Madagascar is the world’s fourth largest island that offers travellers with a flair for adventure an entirely unique experience. Home to a wealth of precious biodiversity, with some of the world’s rarest plant and animal species, and boasting three World Heritage UNESCO sites, travellers can expect stunning scenery, rich culture and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife excursions.
Source: Mediaoffice
