Air Mauritius looks for 'copter partner

The national carrier Air Mauritius has launched a tender for potential partners for its helicopter services. 

The reason put forward by Air Mauritius is that the company has decided to expand its helicopter operations as well as other complementary logistics for the years ahead.

All interested companies have until May 20 to submit their proposals. 

The national carrier has outlined its main condition to be respected which is no contractual relation would exist between Air Mauritius and the potential partner in case any concrete proposition comes up.

Corail Helicopteres, a Reunion Island-based company which showed interest in setting up in Mauritius to provide its services also proposed to buy the Helicopter Services of Air Mauritius in February. According to the Director of Corail Helicopteres, Mr Fabrice Lourme, negotiations with Air Mauritius to buy the helicopter Services started two years ago.

But according to the spokesperson of Air Mauritius, Mr Donald Payen, the national carrier rejected the offer. Mr Lourme said that if there is any deal which is going to be finalised, Corail Helicopteres would start its activities with a twinengined helicopter.

The national carrier has only three Bell Jet Ranger singleengined helicopters. Mr Payen confirmed yesterday that the main objective of the company is to provide better helicopter services and boost the commercial dynamism of Air Mauritius.

However, Mr Payen said that he is not aware of any negotiations between Corail Helicopteres and Air Mauritius. “Even though Air Mauritius is always open to discussions, its Helicopter Services branch is not for sale.”

By Nitesh Boodhoo