A new chapter in regional connectivity began as Air Tanzania’s inaugural flight touched down at Seychelles International Airport, establishing a direct route between Seychelles and Tanzania. The arriving Airbus A220 was welcomed with a water-cannon salute in the presence of government and aviation leaders.
The new service strengthens regional air connectivity across East Africa and the Indian Ocean, enhancing travel efficiency and deepening economic, tourism, and cultural ties between the two countries. It is expected to improve mobility within Africa while expanding onward connections through broader hub-to-destination networks.
To commemorate the occasion a short ceremony was held at the airport where upon her arrival, the Air Tanzania Airbus A220 was greeted with a traditional water-cannon salute.
Among the passengers on board were the Minister for Transport of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Professor Makame Mbarawa; the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Dr. Ngwaru Jumanne Maghembe; the Chairperson of the Standing Committee of Parliament on Infrastructure, Mr. Moshi Selemani Kakoso; and Members of the Standing Committee of Parliament on Infrastructure and several Members of Parliament.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to officially welcome the first passengers and crew to Seychelles. This was followed by a short tête-à-tête meeting led by Minister Laporte, during which it was discussed that the primary focus would be to further explore the two routes and maximise capacity between Seychelles and Tanzania.
In his opening remarks, PS Bianchi welcomed Air Tanzania into the growing network of airline partners. He underlined that their arrival in Seychelles is a testament to their confidence in Seychelles as a destination and in the continued growth potential of the aviation sector.
“The introduction of this service between Dar es Salaam and Seychelles marks another significant step in enhancing regional connectivity within Africa and across the Indian Ocean. It reinforces our commitment to supporting greater mobility for air passengers and fostering deeper cultural, economic, tourism and trade exchanges. It offers increased travel options and improved access to Seychelles via Tanzania.” he said.
Addressing the ceremony, Professor Makame Mbarawa said that this new route is a symbol of progress, strategic cooperation, shared vision and a renewal of aspiration between Tanzania and Seychelles where it builds a vital bridge connecting market, people-to-people links and economic opportunities. Furthermore, he stated that it provides a unique opportunity to show the tourism treasures and vibrant cultures from both nations.
“This is a clear testament that air transport is a key driver of modern economic development. The direct link connections will bring significant benefits including reducing travel time and lower cost between Tanzania and Seychelles. Secondly, it will improve convenience for people and business travelers,” said Professor Mbarawa.
Air Tanzania will operate three times a week—on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Fridays—arriving in Seychelles at 06:15 LT and departing for Dar es Salaam at 07:15 LT.
Passengers arriving on the inaugural flight were welcomed with local souvenirs and cultural performances by traditional dancers, offering them a warm Seychellois reception.
