DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — Tanzania has taken a major step toward strengthening its tourism and aviation sectors following the official launch of direct flights between Dar es Salaam and Seychelles by the national carrier Air Tanzania Company Limited.
The milestone event, officiated by Tanzania’s Minister of Transport Makame Mbarawa, marks a strategic move to position Tanzania as a competitive hub for regional and international tourism.
A Strategic Route for Tourism Growth
The inaugural flight departed from Dar es Salaam to Seychelles, symbolizing a new chapter in air connectivity across the Indian Ocean. The launch ceremony was attended by members of Tanzania’s Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure, led by Chairperson Selemani Kakoso, highlighting the government’s strong institutional backing for aviation-led economic growth.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Mbarawa emphasized that the new route is more than just a flight connection—it is a gateway to economic integration.
“This route will reduce travel costs between Dar es Salaam and Seychelles while also improving accessibility for tourists and business travelers,” he said.
The direct connection eliminates the need for multiple stopovers, significantly cutting travel time and making it easier for international tourists to combine Tanzania’s world-renowned safari experiences with Seychelles’ luxury island offerings.
Strengthening Indian Ocean Regional Cooperation
On the Seychelles side, David Bianchi, Principal Secretary for Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, described the launch as a turning point for regional collaboration.
He noted that the direct flights will:
- Increase passenger traffic between the two countries
- Stimulate tourism growth in both destinations
- Promote cultural exchange and business partnerships
“This marks a new phase of regional cooperation across the Indian Ocean,” he stated.
Boosting Tanzania’s Tourism Value Chain
The introduction of this route is expected to significantly benefit Tanzania’s tourism ecosystem, which includes iconic destinations such as:
- Serengeti National Park
- Mount Kilimanjaro
- Zanzibar
By linking directly to Seychelles—a globally recognized luxury beach destination—Tanzania can now position itself as part of a multi-destination tourism circuit, attracting high-value travelers seeking diverse experiences in one journey.
Economic and Aviation Sector Impact
The new route aligns with Tanzania’s broader strategy to expand its aviation network and strengthen Air Tanzania Company Limited as a key driver of economic growth.
Expected impacts include:
- Increased foreign tourist arrivals
- Growth in hospitality and service industries
- Expanded trade and investment opportunities
- Enhanced connectivity for business travelers
The move also reinforces Tanzania’s ambition to become a regional aviation hub, leveraging its strategic geographic position along key international routes.
A New Era for Travel Between Tanzania and Seychelles
With pristine beaches, marine tourism, and luxury resorts in Seychelles now just a direct flight away, travelers can seamlessly explore both destinations without logistical complexity.
For tour operators and travel agencies, the route opens new opportunities to design combined packages—linking Tanzania’s wildlife safaris with Seychelles’ ocean experiences—offering a compelling value proposition in the global tourism market.
