Air Seychelles has introduced a new domestic schedule for its flights between the archipelago’s international airport gateway in Mahé and the island of Praslin, a popular destination for both business and leisure travellers. The new timetable, introduced from October 28, 2012 will increase seat capacity on the domestic routing by 38 per cent.

The schedule has been enhanced to increase capacity at peak inter-island travel times throughout the day. Morning, midday and late afternoon flights will double, bringing average seats per week up to 5,216. This increase will serve the growing demand on the Praslin route, both for international connecting passengers and locals. According to Air Seychelles, the number of domestic passengers flown increased in the third quarter by 32 per cent for international guests and 27 per cent for local guests (compared with second quarter figures).

The new schedule will also reduce congestion at the domestic terminal at Mahé through the use of an innovative scheduling system. By scheduling multiple aircraft to operate the same flight, taking off only minutes apart, the airline can offer faster and more convenient services to guests during peak times.

“These changes will further affirm our role as the carrier of choice for inter-island services in Seychelles. Our mission is two-fold: to support the ever-growing tourist industry and to provide a reliable and efficient service for residents,” said Cramer Ball, Chief Executive Officer, Air Seychelles.

“Smart businesses not only respond to demand, but anticipate and prepare for it. Demand for flights to Praslin is growing, among both international and local guests, which is why we have adjusted our domestic schedule and strategy. We foresee a further surge during the holiday season, so we will also be adding additional frequencies during that time,” he added.