Madagascar Airlines and Corsair Forge Game-Changing Partnership in 2025 to Boost Connectivity and Regional Travel

Madagascar Airlines (MD) has been actively expanding its network and partnerships in 2025, enhancing connectivity within the Indian Ocean region and beyond. Here’s an overview of the latest developments:

New Codeshare Agreement to Enhance Regional Connectivity

Effective September, 2025, the two airlines signed a codeshare agreement that covers flights between the Madagascan capital, Antananarivo, and Saint-Denis, Réunion. Corsair will operate these flights with two weekly frequencies, complementing the existing Antananarivo–Paris Orly service already serviced by Madagascar Airlines. Under this arrangement, Madagascar Airlines will market the flights under its own airline code, offering passengers more travel options and increased flexibility.

The agreement not only provides greater choice for travelers flying between Madagascar and Réunion but also supports the airline’s strategy to boost regional connectivity. This deal allows Madagascar Airlines passengers to enjoy smoother connections, more flexibility, and access to new destinations via Corsair’s extensive network. With a growing demand for travel between these key locations, the partnership promises to improve air travel options significantly.

Expanding Access with Interline Agreement

As part of the strengthened collaboration, Madagascar Airlines and Corsair have also signed an interline agreement, offering greater access to both airlines’ networks. This agreement provides Corsair customers with the opportunity to access Madagascar Airlines’ domestic network, enabling connections from Antananarivo to various domestic points within Madagascar. Additionally, passengers flying with Madagascar Airlines can enjoy a broader selection of routes within Corsair’s network.

The interline agreement represents a significant enhancement to the travel options available to passengers, increasing accessibility to Madagascar’s domestic routes while simultaneously expanding Corsair’s reach within the region. This mutual cooperation brings more options for travelers seeking to explore Madagascar, Réunion, and France with added convenience.

Modernizing the Fleet to Meet Growing Demand

Fleet modernization remains at the core of Madagascar Airlines’ strategy to improve passenger comfort and operational efficiency. The airline operates a modern fleet that is specifically adapted to the needs of the Malagasy network. Currently, the fleet includes five ATR aircraft, which are known for their reliability and efficiency, ensuring that the airline can meet the demands of both domestic and regional flights.

The ATR aircraft in the fleet include:

• ATR 72-500:
  • 5R-EJC: 64 seats (8 in Business Class and 56 in Economy Class)
  • 5R-MJF: 70 seats (8 in Business Class and 62 in Economy Class)
  • 5R-EJH and 5R-EJK: 72 seats (8 in Business Class and 64 in Economy Class)
• ATR 72-600:
  • 5R-EJB: 72 seats (10 in Business Class and 62 in Economy Class)

These aircraft are ideal for domestic operations, allowing Madagascar Airlines to efficiently serve the entire national territory with the comfort and safety expected by passengers. With these aircraft, the airline is well-equipped to meet the growing demand for domestic and regional flights, offering a seamless travel experience throughout Madagascar.

Sustainable Growth and Future Projections

Looking ahead, Madagascar Airlines is set for significant growth, with projections of 15% to 20% passenger growth over the next six years. By 2028, the airline aims to serve 750,000 passengers, a key milestone that aligns with the government’s ambition of attracting one million tourists by the same year. This growth will be supported by continued fleet modernization, the expansion of routes, and the establishment of additional strategic partnerships like the one with Corsair.

The airline has expressed confidence in Madagascar Airlines’ future, noting that the collaboration with Corsair and the new codeshare and interline agreements will significantly enhance the airline’s position in the market. The partnership is also expected to help Madagascar Airlines reach a broader range of international and regional travelers, bringing Madagascar closer to key global hubs, particularly France and Réunion.

Strategic Importance for Madagascar’s Tourism and Economy

Madagascar Airlines‘ efforts to expand its route network and enhance passenger experience are closely tied to the growth of the country’s tourism industry. By improving air connectivity between Madagascar, Réunion, and France, the airline is playing an instrumental role in supporting the tourism sector and facilitating easier access for tourists wishing to explore the island’s unique offerings.

Madagascar is renowned for its biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. With improved air connections, more international visitors are expected to explore Madagascar’s many attractions. The partnership with Corsair will not only make travel to Madagascar more accessible but also stimulate the local economy by boosting tourism-related industries, such as hospitality, transportation, and local services.

Future Expansion Plans and Continued Modernization

Madagascar Airlines has plans to continue modernizing its fleet and expanding its route network. The airline aims to grow its fleet significantly by introducing more modern aircraft to meet the increasing demand for air travel in the region. As part of its broader strategy, Madagascar Airlines plans to introduce new international routes and strengthen its domestic network, providing travelers with more options and improved connectivity.

With an ambitious fleet modernization program and a focus on expanding regional and international connectivity, Madagascar Airlines is well-positioned to contribute to the sustainable development of Madagascar’s tourism and economic growth. The airline’s continued efforts to enhance its operational capabilities, build strategic partnerships, and provide a high-quality passenger experience will ensure its place as a key player in the Indian Ocean aviation market.

Other Advancements Madagascar Airlines and Corsair

Madagascar Airlines (MD) Developments:

• New and Upcoming Routes:
  • Antananarivo (TNR) to Saint-Denis, Réunion (RUN): Codeshare agreement effective September 18, 2025, with Corsair operating flights twice weekly.
  • Réunion (RUN) – Toamasina (TMM) – Sainte-Marie (SMS): New regional air link with Air Austral to boost tourism and economic exchanges between Réunion and Madagascar.
• New Partnerships:
  • Air Austral Codeshare and SPA: Signed in June 2025, this agreement facilitates booking flights under MD flight numbers to Malagasy destinations.
  • Air France Codeshare: Began in February 2025, expanding travel options between Madagascar and France.
  • AirPark GSA Appointment in Sri Lanka: In April 2025, AirPark appointed as Madagascar Airlines’ commercial representative in Sri Lanka.
• Fleet Expansion and Modernization:
  • New ATR 72 Aircraft: Second ATR 72 welcomed in April 2025.
  • Lease Extensions: Leases on two ATR aircraft extended until January 2028 and November 2029.
  • Fleet Growth Plans: Aim to expand to seven ATR72 aircraft by mid-2026.

Corsair Developments in 2025:

• New and Upcoming Routes:
  • Bordeaux–Fort-de-France: Direct flights starting December 15, 2025, enhancing connectivity to the Caribbean.
  • Pointe-à-Pitre–Nantes: New direct route starting December 23, 2025, between Guadeloupe and Nantes-Atlantique.
• Strategic Partnerships:
  • Air Austral Collaboration: Enhancing connectivity to Réunion and Mauritius with smoother passenger connections.
  • ECS Group Partnership: Celebrating 40 years of partnership, focusing on sustainable cargo operations.
• Fleet Modernization:
  • Airbus A330neo: Adding new A330neo aircraft to improve passenger comfort and expand into new markets.

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