Air Mauritius Will Expand UK Flight Frequency
The airline will increase capacity by next summer to meet rising demand for travel to the island nation.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Africa
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Air Mauritius plans to increase flight frequency from London Gatwick to between six and seven weekly trips by next summer. This expansion aims to capture the annual UK market, which represents 150,000 visitors to Mauritius.
Why it matters
The move follows a period where visitor numbers fell by 11 per cent, a decline previously linked to Middle East conflict and reliance on transit via Dubai. Boosting direct flight capacity is a strategic effort to stabilize tourism growth after recent fluctuations.
Direct flights from London Gatwick to Mauritius take under 12 hours. Current packages start at £739 per person for B&B breaks and £999 per person for beachside resorts.
The players
Air Mauritius
This is the flag carrier airline of the Republic of Mauritius, which operates regional and long-haul services.
The details
Air Mauritius has committed to operating five flights per week in the immediate term to align with rising demand seen in August. The planned increase to six or seven flights per week will bolster connectivity for travelers seeking a destination with January temperatures reaching 30C.
Timeline
Visitor numbers to Mauritius rose during August.
Extra flights from the UK are expected by next summer.
Travel Outlook
The island faces seasonal tourism fluctuations where visitor numbers are heavily influenced by direct connectivity and regional stability. This capacity increase aligns with the broader push to move beyond the 11 per cent decline in visitors previously attributed to transit reliance in the Middle East.
Travelers should monitor flight availability as the airline scales up frequency to reach the goal of seven weekly departures by next summer. Those looking to visit during the January peak season should account for the 30C temperatures and the 3-4 hour time difference.
The takeaway
Direct flight availability is a key factor for travelers looking to avoid the complexities of transit hubs when planning trips to Mauritius. Booking in advance remains the best strategy for securing competitive rates at both B&B properties and beachside resorts.
What happens next
The airline is slated to implement the increased flight schedule of six to seven weekly trips by next summer.
Further reading
For more information on regional tourism and transportation, visit the Africa section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Scottish Sun.
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