Hopes for swift resolution is faltering as protests in Madagascar continue, prompting several international governments to update their travel advisories and local tourism operators to monitor developments closely.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) today (October 8) advised “against all but essential travel to Madagascar”. Protests and violent disorder in Antananarivo and other major cities, with looting and road blockages around the airport, have been reported.
The FCDO notes that some international and domestic flights have been cancelled and overnight curfews are in place in Antananarivo, Toamasina and Toliara. Travellers are urged to follow local advice, avoid demonstrations and check flight information before travelling.
Similarly, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has also raised its advice level, urging travellers to “reconsider your need to travel to Madagascar due to demonstrations and civil unrest”.
Additionally, the US Department of State has increased its advisory to Level 3: Reconsider Travel, citing crime and unrest.
Air travel and operator response
Despite the unrest, Airlink confirmed that its Madagascar flight schedule remains unaffected.
“There has been no disruption to Airlink’s Madagascar flight schedule and operations,” said an Airlink spokesperson.
Tour operator Go2Africa said it continues to monitor the situation through local partners. “Our priority is always the safety and well-being of our travellers,” said Operations Manager Tracy Payne.
She said some travellers have opted to postpone or cancel upcoming trips while enquiries for future travel remain steady. Travellers currently in the country have continued their journeys with minimal disruption. Only an outbound domestic flight has required a schedule adjustment.
Payne added that demonstrations are mainly concentrated in Antananarivo’s city centre and selected regions while key tourism areas such as Nosy Be, the Masoala Peninsula and Maroantsetra remain unaffected.
“Our approach remains cautious but calm. We do not advise for or against travel instead ensuring clients have the latest verified information to make informed decisions,” Payne added.
