Air Seychelles Soars with Double IATA Safety Certifications
Great news for African travel professionals partnering with Air Seychelles! The airline has successfully secured both the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) and the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certifications, marking a crucial step forward in its commitment to safety and operational excellence. These accreditations, awarded by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in January 2025, demonstrate Air Seychelles’ dedication to maintaining the highest standards across its operations and the safety of its airline partners. For travel agents, this double certification means added assurance when booking flights and services in the Seychelles.
The ISAGO certification, a first for Air Seychelles, was achieved after a rigorous process initiated in June 2023. This involved a comprehensive analysis by an IATA-trained consultant, on-site training for key personnel in April 2024, and concluded with an intensive week-long audit by IATA’s ISAGO auditors in August 2024. The audit covered crucial areas such as passenger and baggage handling, aircraft ground movement, and cargo operations, ensuring the airline adheres to the industry’s top operational benchmarks. This achievement highlights Air Seychelles' commitment to enhancing performance and reducing risks, aligning perfectly with global best practices.
ISAGO, an internationally recognized program, focuses on the oversight of ground handling service providers (GHSPs), and underscores the importance of standardized operational procedures. This certification not only enhances safety but also increases the confidence of international airlines serving the Seychelles who depend on the airline’s ground handling services. This ensures the efficient and safe handling of passengers and cargo, which in turn translates to positive experiences for travellers. By achieving ISAGO certification, Air Seychelles has significantly boosted its reputation as a reliable partner for airlines worldwide.
In addition to ISAGO, Air Seychelles successfully renewed its IOSA accreditation, an essential evaluation that assesses the operational management and control systems of airlines. By achieving this, the national carrier adheres to over 900 international safety standards, further emphasizing its commitment to global aviation safety. The IOSA accreditation confirms the airline's adherence to stringent safety protocols, making it a safer and more reliable option for travelers. For travel agents across Africa, this dual achievement provides a compelling selling point for those seeking safe and dependable air travel options.
According to Air Seychelles’ CEO, Sandy Benoiton, these certifications “reaffirm our dedication to maintaining the highest standards in ground operations and ensuring the safety and satisfaction of our airline partners and their passengers." This development also strengthens Air Seychelles’ position as a reliable ground handling agent. The ISAGO registration is valid until August 2026, and the IOSA accreditation until January 2027, with future renewal audits to ensure consistent adherence to safety standards. Air Seychelles' ongoing commitment to safety and operational excellence strengthens the reliability of its services for all its African and global travel partners, ensuring seamless experiences for passengers and boosting confidence across the industry.
