The Seychelles, an archipelago nation sprinkled across the Indian Ocean, beckons travelers with the promise of pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and unparalleled natural beauty. From the powdery white sands lapped by turquoise waters to the verdant national parks teeming with unique wildlife, the Seychelles offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. To begin your Seychellois adventure, understanding the archipelago’s air travel infrastructure is essential. While most international travelers arrive at the bustling Seychelles International Airport on Mahé Island, a network of smaller airports facilitates island hopping and direct access to specific destinations within this idyllic paradise. This guide serves as a comprehensive overview of the airports in the Seychelles, providing insights into their locations, services, and connectivity.
Seychelles International Airport
Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), also known as Aéroport de la Pointe Larue, is the primary gateway to the Seychelles. Located on the northeast coast of Mahé, the largest island and home to the capital city of Victoria, SEZ is the largest and busiest airport in the archipelago. It serves as the hub for Air Seychelles, the national carrier, and also houses the Seychelles Public Defence Force.
The airport’s infrastructure comprises three terminals: an international terminal catering to flights from around the globe, a domestic terminal facilitating inter-island travel, and a cargo terminal handling the movement of goods. The international terminal is a modern facility equipped to handle large volumes of passengers. Its architecture reflects the tropical ambiance of the Seychelles, with open spaces and natural light.
Connectivity: SEZ boasts excellent connectivity, with direct flights from major international hubs such as Paris, London, Dubai, Johannesburg, and Mumbai. Several prominent airlines operate routes to and from SEZ, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways. This ensures convenient access to the Seychelles from various corners of the world.
Services and Facilities: Passengers arriving at or departing from SEZ can avail themselves of a range of services and facilities designed to enhance their travel experience. These include:
- Free Wi-Fi: Seamless internet access throughout the terminals.
- Medical Services: On-site medical assistance for emergencies and health-related concerns.
- Foreign Currency Exchange: Convenient currency exchange counters for converting currency.
- ATMs: Readily available Automated Teller Machines for cash withdrawals.
- Duty-Free Shopping: A selection of duty-free shops offering a variety of products.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Numerous dining options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals.
- Car Rental Services: A range of car rental agencies for exploring Mahé Island at your own pace.
Transportation: Getting to and from SEZ is relatively straightforward.
- Buses: Public buses operate frequently, with services running every 20 to 30 minutes, providing an affordable transportation option to Victoria and other parts of Mahé.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal buildings, offering a more direct and convenient mode of transport. Negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid any surprises.
- Hotel Transfers: Many hotels and resorts offer pre-arranged airport transfers for their guests.
Praslin Island Airport (Iles de Palmes Airport)
Praslin Island Airport (PRI), also known as Iles de Palmes Airport, is the second-busiest airport in the Seychelles, handling over 200,000 passengers annually. Located on Praslin, the second-largest island in the archipelago, PRI plays a crucial role in connecting Praslin to Mahé and other islands. The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority operates the airport.
Connectivity: PRI primarily serves flights to and from Mahé (SEZ), with a flight duration of approximately 15 minutes. Air Seychelles operates most of these flights, offering multiple daily connections. Additionally, private operators, such as Zil Air, provide helicopter services for a more exclusive and personalized travel experience.
Services and Facilities: While smaller than SEZ, PRI offers essential services and facilities to cater to the needs of travelers.
- Shower Rooms: Facilities for freshening up after a flight.
- Banking Services: Banking facilities for financial transactions.
- Gift Shops: Souvenir shops offering local crafts and memorabilia.
- Car Rental: Car rental agencies are available at the airport.
Transportation: Several transportation options are available for getting around Praslin from PRI.
- Hotel Transfers: Many hotels and resorts offer direct airport pick-up services.
- Private Car Hire: Renting a car provides flexibility in exploring the island.
- Taxi Service: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal.
- Public Bus: The public bus service connects the airport to various parts of Praslin.
Fregate Island Airport
Fregate Island Airport (FRK) is a small, private airstrip serving Fregate Island Private, an exclusive luxury resort. The airport consists of a single runway, primarily used for helicopter services connecting the island to Mahé.
Connectivity: Helicopter transfers to and from Mahé are the primary mode of transport to Fregate Island. Air Seychelles also offers chartered flight options for guests of the resort.
Services and Facilities: Given its small size and private nature, FRK offers limited services and facilities. The focus is on providing a seamless and personalized arrival and departure experience for resort guests.
Assumption Island Airport
Assumption Island Airport (FSAS) is a remote airport located on Assumption Island, approximately 705 miles southwest of Victoria. Operated by the Islands Development Corporation (IDC), FSAS serves as a transit point for tourists visiting the outer islands of the Seychelles.
Connectivity: Chartered flights to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) are available from FSAS. The airport also serves as a destination for individuals with connections to the Indian military base located on the island.
Services and Facilities: As a remote airport, FSAS offers limited services and facilities.
Alphonse Airport
Alphonse Airport (FSL) is a private airport located on Alphonse Island, approximately 248 miles from Mahé. With a single airstrip, it caters to inter-island connections and offers scheduled flights to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) once a week.
Connectivity: Scheduled flights to SEZ are available once a week. Air Seychelles also provides chartered flight options.
Services and Facilities: FSL offers limited services and facilities due to its small size and remote location.
Denis Island Airport
Denis Island Airport (DEI) is a small, private airstrip situated on Denis Private Island, another exclusive island resort.
Connectivity: Most tourists reach Denis Island via charter flights through Air Seychelles or other private operators. A single daily flight connects Denis Island to Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé.
Services and Facilities: DEI offers limited services and facilities.
Desroches Airport
Desroches Airport (DES) is located on Desroches Island and operated by the Islands Development Corporation (IDC).
Connectivity: Air Seychelles provides chartered flights to Desroches Island from Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) twice daily.
Services and Facilities: DES offers very limited services and facilities.
Bird Island Airport
Bird Island Airport (BDI) is a private airstrip serving Bird Island, a renowned eco-tourism destination.
Connectivity: A daily charter flight from Mahé Island (SEZ) to Bird Island Airport is typically scheduled. The airport authority also offers chartered private flights and helicopter services, although these options can be expensive. This guide to airports in the Seychelles is intended to help you plan your trip to this island paradise.
Services and Facilities: BDI offers limited services and facilities.
This guide to airports in the Seychelles aims to provide you with the information needed to navigate the air travel landscape of this stunning archipelago. Remember to check with airlines and airport authorities for the latest flight schedules and operational details. Enjoy your journey to the Seychelles! With this guide to airports in the Seychelles you will be all set.
