Cooperation between Comorian authorities and users to improve flights

On July 22, 2025, a delegation of users of the Réunion-Comoros route met with the Minister of Transport, Yasmine Hassane Alfeine, and the Director of the National Agency for Civil Aviation and Meteorology (ANACM), Abdou Mondoha.

The objective of these discussions was to find solutions to facilitate travel between Moroni and Saint-Denis, according to an unofficial source. Since the closure of the direct route, passengers have had to travel via Dzaoudzi (Mayotte) with Air Austral. This detour makes tickets very expensive and customs checks difficult, according to travelers. After contacting the Réunion Region, passenger representatives decided to also seek assistance from the Comorian authorities.

During the meeting, the Director of Civil Aviation welcomed the delegation and is aware of the problems encountered. Kasssim M’bae, a spokesperson for the group, explained that the difficulties extend beyond the simple journey, particularly the repatriation of bodies, which is often carried out in poor conditions. The user committee is even considering boycotting Air Austral as early as September due to cancellations, delays, overbooking, and high fares.

Several solutions were proposed, such as working with other airlines, such as Corsair, to help passengers stranded in Madagascar or Mauritius. The Minister also indicated that travelers transiting through Nairobi are experiencing the same difficulties and that she will present this issue to the Council of Ministers.

Negotiations are underway with Mauritius to open new routes. Kasssim M’bae stated that the discussions have reassured users, who note a genuine willingness on the part of the Comorian authorities to continue the collaboration. Since May, this group has been demanding the return of a direct flight between Saint-Denis and Moroni. The Réunion Region, a shareholder in Air Austral, has promised a response by August 18.

Air Austral had justified the suspension of direct flights by citing the condition of the runway at Hahaya Airport. The Director of ANACM refuted this claim, asserting that the runway is in good condition and can accommodate the company’s aircraft.