Mauritius to Invite Bids for 49% of Air Mauritius

Mauritius is preparing to open bidding for a 49% stake in Air Mauritius as the government seeks fresh investment to strengthen the flag carrier and support the island’s tourism industry. According to sources cited by Bloomberg, the sale process could begin as early as next week, with Qatar Airways viewed by some officials as a potential frontrunner.

The government is leading the divestment of the minority stake, aiming to secure a strategic partner that can help stabilize the airline’s finances and expand its international network. Neither Air Mauritius nor Qatar Airways has commented on the reports.

The news follows recent warnings from Air Mauritius chairman Kishore Beegoo, who argued that selling the airline to Qatar Airways would compromise national sovereignty. In an interview with Defi Media, Beegoo said such a move would be “a strategic error with serious consequences,” stressing the airline’s importance as a tool for economic development. He added that Air Mauritius is instead exploring alliances that preserve local control.

Cabinet-level discussions have reportedly been held on involving Qatar Airways as a strategic partner, though no final decision has been made. If Qatar Airways were to invest, it would mark a shift away from Air Mauritius’ long-standing partnership with Emirates. Since 2003, the two carriers have cooperated on codesharing, cargo, frequent flyer benefits, and interline agreements. Emirates currently operates twice-daily A380 flights between Dubai and Mauritius.

The planned stake sale highlights Mauritius’ efforts to balance financial sustainability for its national airline with safeguarding economic independence.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com