Air Mauritius will operate two additional flights to mainland China in 2014

As from next Tuesday, the 21st of January 2014, Air Mauritius will start a third weekly frequency to Shanghai. It will also operate a second weekly frequency to Beijing as from the 16th of July 2014. The company has stepped up operations to China as part of its new operating model which aims at rebalancing growth to emerging markets.

Air Mauritius started a once weekly flight to Shanghai in 2011, three direct flights to mainland China in 2013 and by mid-2014 will be operating five direct weekly flights to mainland China. This is in addition to a minimum of twice weekly flights to Hong Kong and the three flights a week to Kuala Lumpur from where passengers can connect to destinations in China. Air Mauritius will thus be offering customers 10 flights a week to this fast growing region as well.

The addition of capacity on China has significantly stimulated demand. During Financial Year 2013/14, Air Mauritius provided more than 93,000 seats and in 2014/15, this figure will be increased to an estimated 146,000, representing a 57% increase.

" Our network strategy is paying off. We are glad to note that with the development of our operations to China, Air Mauritius is investing in an important market both for the future of the company and for Mauritius. Our strategy to re-balance growth to high potential destinations initiated as from 2012 supports the country strategy and is gradually compensating for the economically challenged traditional markets. We are pleased to note that tourist arrivals from China have increased from 20,900 in 2012 to nearly 42,000 in 2013. Air Mauritius will continue to monitor the potential of these markets and act accordingly ", says Andre Viljoen, the CEO.