Air Mauritius is set to increase its London-Gatwick to Mauritius flights to at least five times a week, with ambitions to restore daily frequencies by 2028. This development follows a meeting between the national carrier and Dinesh Burrenchobay, head of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA). The discussions focused on available air capacity from the UK to Mauritius. Previously, Air Mauritius operated daily flights from London-Gatwick, but reduced frequencies last year due to insufficient demand.
The MTPA cites decreased air capacity as one factor contributing to recent underperformance in the British market. At a recent roadshow in London, Manchester, and Birmingham, Dinesh Burrenchobay reported that British visitor numbers to Mauritius dropped 2% in 2025 compared to 2024. This trend continued in the first half of 2026, with an 11% decline. The MTPA attributes this partly to the impact of the Middle East conflict. However, August saw a 5.2% year-on-year growth in British visitors, driven mainly by last-minute bookings.
Globally, Mauritius has seen a 2% increase in international arrivals compared to 2025. The island welcomed a record 1.4 million visitors in 2025 and tourism authorities expect a strong finish to 2026. The UK remains Mauritius' second-largest tourist market, after France. Nevertheless, Dinesh Burrenchobay believes current results do not match the potential of this clientele. He emphasizes that a lack of air capacity is not helping.
To address this, Air Mauritius has committed to increasing frequencies to five, possibly six or seven, flights a week. Although no timeline is set, additional flights from the UK are expected by summer. The airline has also strengthened its commercial presence in the UK by hiring Darren McCormick as a new commercial attaché based in Manchester. McCormick will focus on developing relationships with partners in northern England.
Air Mauritius plans to recruit two more commercial attachés for the south, based in London. Meanwhile, the MTPA aims to boost Mauritius' visibility in the British market by partnering with influential figures to become destination ambassadors. These efforts aim to revitalize the British market, which has shown signs of recovery.
The MTPA's roadshows in the UK have highlighted opportunities for growth. By increasing air capacity and strengthening commercial ties, Mauritius hopes to regain momentum in the British market. The country's tourism industry is optimistic about the upcoming peak season.
With a renewed focus on the British market, Mauritius is poised to capitalize on its tourism potential. The increased flights and strengthened commercial presence are expected to contribute to a stronger performance in the UK market.
Key points
- Air Mauritius to increase London-Mauritius flights to at least five times a week
- British visitor numbers to Mauritius dropped 2% in 2025
- Mauritius expects a strong finish to 2026 with a 2% increase in international arrivals
