Direct flights connect Central Asia and parts of Eastern Europe to Seychelles through Almaty

The first of a series of direct flights from Kazakhstan landed at Seychelles International Airport December 27, 2022, with 137 passengers.

The flight, operated by the national carrier Air Seychelles, was greeted by a traditional water cannon salute and welcomed by the Minister for Transport, Mr. Antony Derjacques, and the PS for Civil Aviation, Mr. Alan Renaud, and the Tourism Seychelles Director-General for Destination Planning and Development, Mr. Paul Lebon.

Also present at the airport was Air Seychelles’ Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sandy Benoiton, and Tourism Seychelles Market Director, Mrs. Lena Hoareau.

The flight is the fruit of the historic bilateral air services agreement recently signed in October this year between Seychelles and Kazakhstan, allowing airlines to operate direct flights between the two countries.

A seasonal service will run until March 2023, providing twice-weekly flights for visitors from the region. Air Seychelles has further announced additional flights on the route during the festive season.

Tourism Seychelles’ Director-General for Destination Marketing, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, expressed her satisfaction to have direct flights to Seychelles from this part of Central Asia, which can be a closer option for visitors from nearer parts of Eastern Europe.

“Although the market is still a small one for the Seychelles, Tourism Seychelles has been maintaining a presence over the years because we see the potential from the area.

“Now with this new direct service we expect to see more visitors from Kazakhstan and its neighboring region visiting our destination.”

“On our part, Tourism Seychelles is planning to intensive our marketing efforts and increasing our promotional activities on the market.

“We have already started with the series of collaboration with both local and international partners.”

 Seychelles has recorded 327 visitors from Kazakhstan from January to November 2022.

MEDIA CONTACT: Tourism Seychelles, [email protected]