In Madagascar, air transport remains the easiest and fastest means of travel, although not always the safest. The rugged terrain and vast expanses of land make overland travel difficult and significantly lengthen journey times. This often leaves travelers with little choice but to opt for a direct flight to their destination.
Domestic flights are mainly operated by Tsaradia, a subsidiary of Air Madagascar, now known as Madagascar Airlines. Tsaradia offers regular connections between the country’s main cities, such as Antananarivo (the capital), Nosy Be, Diego Suarez, Tamatave, Majunga, Tuléar, and Fort Dauphin. These fast flights significantly reduce journey times, especially in a country where roads are sometimes in poor condition. However, despite their apparent efficiency, these flights are often subject to unforeseen events such as cancellations, delays, or technical issues, which can disrupt travel plans.
All of Madagascar’s major cities are accessible by air, and all regions are linked by scheduled air services. The only exceptions are the cities on the central plateaus, which benefit from a sufficiently developed road network. Consequently, the Antananarivo-Antsirabe-Fianarantsoa-Ihosy route is not served by any airlines. In addition to the public airports served by Madagascar Airlines, the country also boasts numerous private or emergency airfields, with well over a hundred in total.
Tickets for domestic flights can be booked online, via travel agencies, directly at Madagascar Airlines offices, or on their website: https://madagascarairlines.com/. Fares vary according to the season and how early you book. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to guarantee a seat and secure the best fares.
Domestic flights in Madagascar are generally short, with an average duration of 1 to 2 hours, depending on the destination. The aircraft used for these routes are often medium-sized and adapted to the local infrastructure. Antananarivo’s Ivato International Airport serves as the main hub for connections to other cities.
If you dread long car journeys, domestic flights in Madagascar are an excellent alternative. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that unexpected situations can always arise. So, always have a backup plan to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
