1. Could you briefly introduce us to Ravinala Airports and its mission in Madagascar?
Ravinala Airports is a Malagasy company created by French partners, Paris Aéroport (ADP), a global leader in airport operations, and Meridiam, a long-term infrastructure investment fund. Together, we manage Madagascar's two primary airports: Ivato in Antananarivo and Fascene in Nosy Be, under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the Malagasy government. We have 280 employees, of whom only three are expatriates, and our mission is to provide world-class airport services while supporting national economic development.
2. What are your main priorities regarding passenger experience and operational efficiency?
Our goal is to make Antananarivo and Nosy Be airports showcases of Malagasy hospitality by 2027. We've been recognized among Africa's best airports in our category for service quality. Our strategy rests on three pillars: atmosphere and well-being, entertainment and services, and the dedication of our staff. We're introducing relaxation zones, family areas, cultural events, seasonal decor, tourism information corners, evolving culinary experiences, digital services, and even gaming areas. Our staff are our ambassadors, actively involved in delivering top-tier service through continuous training and engagement.
3. How is Ravinala Airports supporting tourism and strengthening air connectivity?
We’re focused on three key areas: strategic airline partnerships, infrastructure development, and destination promotion. We conduct market research to attract new airlines and increase route frequencies. We also offer incentive programs to help airlines mitigate risk when opening new routes. On the ground, we've modernized our terminals to ensure seamless and safe passenger journeys. Through platforms like Nosy Best Deals and participation in international tourism fairs, we actively promote Madagascar as a premium destination.
4. What steps are you taking to ensure sustainability in airport operations?
We're committed to reducing our environmental footprint. Ravinala Airports is progressing through the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program and targets Level 3+ "Neutrality" by 2027. We aim for a 30% CO₂ reduction by 2026 compared to 2019 levels. A solar power plant now powers Nosy Be Airport during the day, and similar projects are being explored for Antananarivo. The new Ivato terminal is EDGE-certified, achieving substantial energy and water savings. We've recycled over 6.5 tons of waste since 2023 and launched a major biodiversity program in Nosy Be, which won the 2023 ACI Africa Environment & Sustainable Development Award.
5. How do you position Madagascar in the regional aviation landscape?
Our location makes Madagascar a potential hub in the Indian Ocean. We’re upgrading infrastructure to meet international standards and expanding services to encourage multi-destination and transit travel. We aim to make Madagascar a connector between Africa, the Gulf, and Asia.
6. What are your plans for developing cargo transport?
Madagascar has high-value products, textiles, agriculture, crafts, that require air transport. We're preparing an international call for tenders to build and manage a dedicated cargo terminal at Ivato. This facility will boost exports and support economic development. We’re seeking private operators to invest and manage this sector with us.
7. How do you collaborate with the public and private sectors?
As a PPP, our relationship with the state is foundational. Respecting the concession contract is critical. We engage in open discussions with the government to finalize key contractual elements. On the private side, we collaborate with tourism stakeholders and airlines to strengthen connectivity, especially with partners like Emirates, which helped raise our operational standards.
8. Are you exploring partnerships with Gulf countries and investors?
Absolutely. We welcome UAE and Gulf partners in aviation, logistics, private aviation, and hospitality. There’s potential for co-investing in Fixed-Base Operators (FBOs) for business jets at both Ivato and Nosy Be. We are open to long-term partnerships, particularly with developers looking at our concession, which runs until 2044.
9. What are the biggest opportunities and challenges ahead?
Opportunities include growing tourism, expanding cargo, and strengthening regional connectivity. Challenges include aligning public and private goals, training talent, and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with demand. We’re addressing these by investing in people, infrastructure, and sustainable practices.
10. What is your final message to investors and readers of the Khaleej Times?
Madagascar is a hidden gem, rich in biodiversity, culture, and human potential. It offers vast opportunities in tourism, agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure. The Malagasy people are young, motivated, and welcoming. We invite investors, airlines, and travelers to discover Madagascar. You won’t be disappointed.
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