Air France, Emirates, Turkish, and Other Airlines Cancel Flights as Mauritius Airport Closes Due to Storm Garance

Severe travel disruptions in Mauritius have led to the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport due to Storm Garance. Major airlines, including Air France, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines, have canceled all flights. Authorities warn of dangerous weather conditions, advising residents and tourists to remain indoors. Public transportation and non-essential services are also affected, creating additional challenges for travelers.
Mauritius is currently facing significant travel disruptions due to the closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, prompted by the approach of Storm Garance. Airlines, including Air France, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, South African Airways, Air India, Austrian Airlines, British Airways, and Saudia Airlines, have canceled all flights in response to the deteriorating weather conditions. The airport was shut down following a Class III storm warning issued by the Mauritius Meteorological Service, signaling severe weather, including strong winds and heavy rainfall. As a result, all air travel to and from the island has been halted until further notice, stranding many passengers and disrupting travel plans.
The closure became effective at 19:10 local time on February 26, 2025, coinciding with heightened storm warnings indicating dangerous conditions could arise. Flights from multiple international carriers, such as Kenya Airways, Condor, Air Mauritius, IndiGo, and Air Seychelles, have also been suspended indefinitely, leaving travelers to check in with airlines for any updates regarding rebooking and alternative arrangements. As Storm Garance position continues to evolve, its predicted strength is concerning, with potential wind speeds reaching up to 165 kilometers per hour (102 mph). Authorities are advising residents and visitors to remain indoors and avoid coastal areas due to rough seas and flooding risks.
In conjunction with the airport closure, financial institutions, the stock exchange, and non-essential offices are also closed. Since the previous day was a public holiday, the continued closure of these facilities is likely if the storm warning escalates. Public transportation systems may face delays and cancellations, further complicating travel within the region. It is also notable that Mauritius had been experiencing a dry spell prior to the storm, resulting in government-imposed water usage restrictions across the island.
The Mauritius Meteorological Service has cautioned that weather conditions may worsen with the storm’s anticipated progression. Individuals scheduled for flights are encouraged to remain updated through official airline channels and monitor ongoing weather forecasts. More travel disruptions may occur in the coming days, depending on how the storm evolves and its impact on the island.
The closure of Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport due to Storm Garance has led to numerous flight cancellations, impacting travelers globally. Authorities are urging people to stay indoors and exercise caution under the severe weather conditions. With ongoing updates from the Mauritius Meteorological Service and airlines, travelers are advised to remain vigilant about potential further disruptions as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com