The aircraft departed Ivato without authorization from local authorities and in the absence of an approved flight plan

The Mauritian authorities are facing a diplomatic dilemma they would have preferred to avoid, especially in light of the evolving political situation in Madagascar. The unauthorized landing of a Malagasy private jet at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport between Saturday night and Sunday morning—without adhering to established procedures—prompted Acting Prime Minister Paul Bérenger to call for an investigation.

According to sources close to the matter, the pilots reportedly informed air traffic control that they were low on fuel. The aircraft not only carried former Malagasy Prime Minister Louis Christian Ntsay but also businessman Mamy Ravatomanga—an unofficial adviser and key financial backer of President Andry Rajoelina—raising further concern in Port Louis.

The landing of a Cessna belonging to Trans Ocean Airways, part of the Malagasy SODIAT Group, without prior clearance, risks straining relations between Mauritius and Madagascar. The aircraft departed Ivato Airport without authorization from local authorities and without filing a flight plan. Denied landing rights in Réunion, the crew allegedly diverted to Mauritius, citing fuel shortage.

What has particularly alarmed Port Louis is the presence on board of Mamy Ravatomanga, the controversial head of SODIAT. Widely regarded as a close confidant of President Rajoelina, Ravatomanga has been linked to allegations of corruption, tax fraud, and illegal trafficking of rosewood.

He is now being accused by protesters in Madagascar of monopolizing public contracts and allegedly forming a private militia through the company MSA Academy amidst ongoing unrest in the country. It’s worth noting that the SODIAT Group maintains business interests across several sectors of the local economy. Among the passengers was also Louis Christian Ntsay, recently removed from his post as Prime Minister following mass demonstrations led by the “Génération Z” movement.