About Air Madagascar

For over 70 years, Air Madagascar has been carrying visitors for business or tourism to the island nation in the Indian Ocean known as Madagascar. Originally founded to connect with Air France services from Europe and continental Africa, the airlines services lasted well beyond the country's connections with its former colonial power. In the 1960s, it was officially recognized as the independent nation's flag carrier: the start of a period of expansion for Air Madagascar, which formed international routes not just to France, but to Southern Africa as well.

The airline currently operates out of Ivato International Airport, located some 15 km outside the island's capital of Antananarivo. Its range of destinations still includes Paris and Marseille but also the islands of Reunion, the Seychelles and even a service as far as China. On the fourth largest island in the world, the carrier's internal flights play a particularly important role, including for eco-tourists and other holiday makers looking to explore this spectacular and bio-diverse island.

The relatively small fleet includes Boeing 737s and Airbus A340s, as well as smaller, 70-seater aircraft that are well suited to their internal flights.

Flying with Air Madagascar

Air Madagascar offers a comfortable economy class for its longer flights, with individual 10-inch seat-back screens and sound systems, a film-on-demand service, and a bi-monthly in-flight magazine. Premium economy travelers can enjoy some extra space, 120° reclining seats, a range of newspapers, a seat-side charger and complimentary refreshments. In business class -- called "Baobab," there are two-metre, lie-flat seats, with a metre and a half of space to spread out, giving you an extra level of comfort; this is ideal for night flights. Fifteen-inch screens also offer you a choice of entertainment.

The frequent flyer program, named "Namako" from the Malagasy for "my friend," is available as an individual, family or group membership and offers a range of benefits, including upgrades and a priority check-in service.

Check-in and baggage allowance

Passengers with a valid ticket and reservation may check in as soon as their flight is called. In Ivato, Paris and Marseille, Baobab travellers can enjoy the comfort of the travelers' lounge.

For all long-haul journeys, only two bags can be checked in as hold baggage. There is a weight limit of 23 kg for economy class and 32 kg for business travelers. Passengers are allowed one item of hand luggage plus a handbag or laptop case as carry-on luggage.