Aeroflot makes the Seychelles its 2nd destination in Africa
Aeroflot is one of the oldest airlines in the world still in operation. Ranked among the top performers, the Russian public company has so far shown little interest in the African market. Now the situation is changing.
Aeroflot will launch regular flights between Moscow and Mahe Island from April 2. In a press release published Friday, March 5, the Russian public company announces 1 weekly flight (Friday) between the capital of Russia and the largest island of Seychelles. “The air service with the Seychelles was opened following the relevant resolution of the Emergency Response Center to prevent the import and spread of the novel coronavirus infection in the Russian Federation, and the opening of the borders for tourists, including Russians, by the Seychelles authorities”, justifies the carrier.
"Russian citizens can enter Seychelles visa-free, without any restrictions (except for a negative Covid-19 test, not older than 72 hours, editor's note)," he adds. The line will be operated without competition with a Boeing 777-300ER. The aircraft can accommodate up to 402 passengers in a configuration of 30 seats in Business class, 48 seats in Premium and 324 seats in Economy class.
It should be noted that this route was served by Aeroflot until November 2001. Once operations are effective, Seychelles will become the second African country connected by Aeroflot. Currently, the national flag only flies to Egypt (6 weekly flights). Considered one of the oldest airlines in the world (established in 1923), Aeroflot is also ranked among the 20 largest on the planet. In 2020, Aeroflot carried 14.6 million passengers. Subsidiaries included, Aeroflot Group, transported 30.2 million people during the same period.
