Discover Airlines Boosts Seychelles’ European Access with First Direct Germany Service
The Seychelles marked a significant expansion in its international air links this week with the arrival of Discover Airlines, the German leisure carrier that forms part of the renowned Lufthansa Group. The airline’s maiden direct flight from Germany touched down at Seychelles International Airport on Monday, 27 October 2025, signalling a major step forward for the Indian Ocean archipelago’s connectivity to Europe—and underlining its growing popularity among German and broader European holidaymakers.
The inaugural flight received a spirited Creole welcome ceremony, reflecting the islands’ vibrant culture and their tradition of rolling out the red carpet for new international partners. The event drew a gathering of influential figures from both the tourism and aviation sectors. Among those present were Mrs. Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary for Tourism; Mr. David Bianchi, Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports and Shipping; and Ms. Wallace Cosgrow, who attended as a government representative and guest of honour. The occasion was further graced by Mr. Garry Albert, CEO of the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority; Mr. Colin Chang-Tave, CEO of the Seychelles Airports Authority; and Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Tourism Seychelles, alongside a host of other key stakeholders.
Bernd Bauer, CEO of Discover Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm at the start of the new route, highlighting the significance of expanding the company’s network into the Indian Ocean. “It’s not every day that we get to launch a new route as an airline. That’s why we’re thrilled to be here today, marking the start of this fabulous new direct connection, one that significantly expands the overall flight offering from Germany to the Seychelles,” he noted. Bauer further revealed that the flight would operate year-round due to robust market demand, a testament to the Seychelles’ strong appeal among German and European travellers. “It’s now easier than ever to reach this dream destination from Germany and beyond,” he added, underscoring the potential for increased tourism flows and business activity.
The introduction of Discover Airlines’ direct service is a development with far-reaching implications for the African travel and aviation community. Germany has consistently ranked among Seychelles’ top source markets for inbound visitors, and increased frequencies from such a key European gateway are poised to stimulate new levels of demand. For airlines and tour operators across sub-Saharan Africa, this move is a compelling example of how strategic partnerships and direct connectivity can invigorate tourism, diversify source markets, and create fresh revenue streams.
Mrs. Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary for Tourism, echoed this sentiment, expressing satisfaction that the long-anticipated route had become a reality. “We’re truly delighted to welcome Discover Airlines to our shores. Germany has always been one of our most important and loyal markets, and this new direct connection makes it even easier for our German visitors to experience our beautiful destination.” Francis also pointed out that the addition of two new direct connections would provide even greater flexibility for visitors, enhancing Seychelles’ accessibility and attractiveness. “Having more flight options can only be a good thing, as it gives travellers more flexibility and makes Seychelles even more accessible,” she emphasised.
This development reflects a wider trend in African aviation, where increased direct connectivity to Europe is seen as a lever for both tourism growth and broader economic development. For the Seychelles, the arrival of Discover Airlines comes at a time when the destination is actively seeking to diversify its visitor base, tap into new markets, and strengthen its position as a year-round holiday haven. This move dovetails with the broader ambitions of African destinations to forge closer ties with major European carriers, expanding their reach and consolidating their reputations as world-class tourist hotspots.
For the region’s tourism professionals, the success of this new route serves as a valuable case study in harnessing international airline partnerships to unlock new business opportunities. The fact that Discover Airlines has already committed to a year-round service—citing strong forward bookings—demonstrates the critical importance of sustained marketing campaigns, collaborative destination promotion, and the creation of seamless travel experiences for European guests. It also highlights the need for African airports and tourism authorities to work hand-in-hand with airlines to ensure that infrastructure, passenger handling, and local hospitality standards are aligned with the expectations of discerning travellers from abroad.
As the Seychelles embarks on this new chapter with Discover Airlines, the outlook for its tourism sector appears exceptionally bright. The enhanced accessibility from Germany is expected to drive not only leisure arrivals but also business travel and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) activity. The knock-on effect for the wider economy—including hotels, resorts, ground handlers, and local service providers—will be significant, reinforcing the role of aviation as a vital engine for sustainable economic development across island destinations and their mainland partners.
For the African travel industry, this milestone is a timely reminder of the value of strategic route development in a competitive global market. As more carriers look to expand their networks and capitalise on pent-up demand for exotic, high-value destinations, there is ample opportunity for innovative collaborations that benefit both airlines and the communities they serve. The Seychelles’ partnership with Discover Airlines is likely to inspire similar initiatives elsewhere on the continent, challenging industry leaders to continually rethink their approach to air access, tourism marketing, and the broader visitor experience.
The arrival of Discover Airlines in the Seychelles is more than just a new flight—it is a symbol of the islands’ growing international stature and a beacon for what can be achieved when vision, partnership, and market insight come together. For those shaping Africa’s travel future, this new connection offers a powerful template for progress, resilience, and shared success in the years ahead.
