The government relies a lot on the tourism sector to stimulate the economy. The arrival of two new airlines in Mauritius in the coming weeks is a step in the right direction. The French Corsair and the South African Comair are expected to increase tourist arrivals from two main markets. The first will start with two flights a week as from 25th October while the latter will have one weekly flight at the end of November.

After the government decided to open air access, these two airlines were the ones chosen ?for what they could bring to the destination?. Thanks to agreements between Mauritius and the countries concerned, both companies are expected to open new perspectives to Mauritian tourism. Corsair has already announced its intention of bringing in 90,000 tourists during its second year of operation from all markets while Comair declared it would play an important role in promoting Mauritius in South Africa and North America.

If the collaboration with these two airlines proves successful, the government will probably decide to go forward with more such negotiations. The next on the list, according to the Prime minister, Navin Ramgoolam, should be Virgin Atlantic and Qatar Airways, with which the government could start negotiations soon.