Crisis in Madagascar Forces Emirates to Halt Dubai-Antananarivo Flights

by Santanu

Emirates airline has suspended all its flights to Madagascar's capital Antananarivo until further notice in response to escalating civil unrest and a military mutiny gripping the island nation. The decision affects Emirates flights EK 707/708, which operate between Dubai and Antananarivo via Seychelles, and comes as the situation in Madagascar deteriorates rapidly following weeks of mass protests and a mutiny by an elite military unit.


UAE's Emirates Suspends Flights to Crisis-Hit Madagascar Amid Military Mutiny and Widespread Protests

Dubai, October 13, 2025 — Emirates airline has suspended all its flights to Madagascar's capital Antananarivo until further notice in response to escalating civil unrest and a military mutiny gripping the island nation. The decision affects Emirates flights EK 707/708, which operate between Dubai and Antananarivo via Seychelles, and comes as the situation in Madagascar deteriorates rapidly following weeks of mass protests and a mutiny by an elite military unit.

The airline made the announcement on Sunday, advising affected passengers to contact their travel agents or Emirates directly for rebooking options. Emirates expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and stated that it is closely monitoring developments on the ground.khaleejtimes+1​

The crisis in Madagascar began on September 25, 2025, initially triggered by protests over chronic power and water shortages affecting large swathes of the population, especially in the capital. The unrest quickly escalated into nationwide demonstrations demanding the resignation of President Andry Rajoelina, reforms, and apologies for the government's heavy-handed crackdown. At least 22 deaths and over 100 injuries have been reported during the protests, marking the worst political crisis in the country since 2009.youtube​reuters+1​

The situation took a sharp turn on October 12, when the CAPSAT unit of the Malagasy Armed Forces—an elite corps instrumental in bringing Rajoelina to power through a coup in 2009—defied government orders and declared it was taking control of all military forces. Soldiers from CAPSAT and some gendarmerie elements joined protestors in refusing to suppress demonstrations, effectively seizing the capital with minimal resistance. Subsequent days saw the removal of key government officials aligned with the president and acceptance of CAPSAT's nominee as head of the armed forces, indicating a near collapse of civilian control over the military.reuters+1​youtube​

President Rajoelina condemned the military action as an "illegal attempt to seize power," but growing rumors suggest the president may have left the country as instability deepens. Civilian demonstrations have been branded by the presidency as unlawful, but soldiers and youth activists remain united, creating a volatile security environment marked by fragmented command and competing authorities.reliefweb+1​youtube​

In response to the deteriorating conditions, several airlines have suspended routes to Madagascar. Air France has halted flights between Paris and Antananarivo until at least October 13, citing safety concerns, while Air Austral paused services between Reunion Island and Madagascar. These travel disruptions come amid concerns over the fragile security situation and potential risks to passengers and crew.gulfnews​

The African Union Peace and Security Council convened an emergency session on October 13 to discuss the escalating crisis. Madagascar, also the current chair of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), is under intense regional scrutiny, with calls for a peaceful resolution and restoration of constitutional order.amaniafrica-et​

Emirates had previously expanded flights to Madagascar in early 2025 to meet robust tourism and travel demand, underscoring the significant impact the current unrest has on travel and commerce in the region. The airline continues to advise travelers to check updated schedules and exercise caution when planning travel to Madagascar.emirates​

This situation remains fluid as international and regional bodies engage with Malagasy leaders and military factions to restore stability. The suspension of flights by Emirates highlights the tangible impact of the crisis on connectivity and economic activity in Madagascar.

This article synthesizes the recent developments including the military mutiny, ongoing protests, airline suspensions, regional diplomatic responses, and the evolving security landscape in Madagascar.wikipedia+4​youtube​

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Location: Dubai - United Arab Emirates