list of airports in Mauritius

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Exploring the Airports of Mauritius: Your Gateway to Paradise

Mauritius, the jewel of the Indian Ocean, is a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike. Understanding the island’s airport infrastructure is crucial for planning a smooth and enjoyable trip. While most international travel flows through Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, Mauritius also boasts several smaller airports catering to domestic flights, helicopter services, and other aviation needs. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all the airports in Mauritius, helping you navigate your journey to and from this beautiful island nation.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU): The Main Hub

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU), formerly known as Plaisance Airport, is the primary international airport in Mauritius. Located in the southeast of the island, near the town of Mahébourg, it serves as the main point of entry for the vast majority of visitors.

MRU handles a significant volume of passenger and cargo traffic, connecting Mauritius to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. The airport has undergone substantial expansions and modernizations over the years, offering a range of facilities including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, car rental services, and currency exchange.

Recent improvements have focused on enhancing passenger experience and increasing operational efficiency. The airport is well-equipped to handle a variety of aircraft, including large wide-body jets. It’s also a key hub for Air Mauritius, the national carrier. Expect a modern and efficient experience when arriving or departing from MRU.

Plaine Corail Airport (NRC): A Regional Alternative

Plaine Corail Airport (NRC), also known as Sir Gaetan Duval Airport, is a regional airport located on the northeast coast of Mauritius, near the town of Grand Baie. While smaller than MRU, Plaine Corail plays a vital role in connecting the northern tourist areas with other islands in the region, particularly Rodrigues Island.

Primarily serving domestic and regional flights, NRC is a convenient option for travelers wishing to avoid the longer journey to and from MRU, especially if their accommodation is located in the north. It’s operated by Airports of Mauritius Co. Ltd (AML) and offers basic facilities for passengers. The airport is undergoing development to accommodate more frequent and larger aircraft.

Sir Charles Gounod Airport (CGU): The Island’s Smallest

Located on the island of Rodrigues, which is an autonomous territory of Mauritius, Sir Charles Gounod Airport (CGU) is the smallest airport in the country. It serves as the sole airport for Rodrigues, connecting the island to Mauritius (MRU) and Réunion (RUN).

CGU is essential for the economic and social development of Rodrigues, facilitating tourism, trade, and access to essential services. The airport has limited facilities, but it is undergoing upgrades to improve its capacity and passenger comfort. Flights to CGU are typically operated by Air Mauritius and Corsair.

A Table of Airports in Mauritius

Airport Name IATA Code ICAO Code Location Primary Use Operated By
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport MRU GOOO Southeast (near Mahébourg) International Airports of Mauritius Co. Ltd (AML)
Plaine Corail Airport (Sir Gaetan Duval Airport) NRC FPRC Northeast (near Grand Baie) Regional/Domestic Airports of Mauritius Co. Ltd (AML)
Sir Charles Gounod Airport CGU FIRG Rodrigues Island Domestic/Regional Airports of Mauritius Co. Ltd (AML)
Mon Choisy Airfield – – Northwest Private/Light Aircraft Private
Grand Baie Heliport – – Grand Baie Helicopter Services Private
Rivière Noire Heliport – – Black River Helicopter Services Private

Note: “-” indicates information is not readily available or the airport is very small and doesn’t have standard IATA/ICAO codes.

Beyond the Main Airports: Heliports and Airfields

While MRU, NRC, and CGU are the officially recognized airports, Mauritius also has several smaller airfields and heliports. These facilities primarily cater to private aviation, helicopter tours, and specialized services.

Mon Choisy Airfield, for example, is used for light aircraft operations. Grand Baie and Rivière Noire both have heliports that support scenic flights and transfers to luxury resorts. These smaller facilities contribute to the overall aviation ecosystem of the island, providing flexibility and convenience for specific travel needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Which airport is best for getting to the northern resorts of Mauritius?
A1: Plaine Corail Airport (NRC) is the most convenient option for reaching resorts in the Grand Baie and northern regions.

Q2: Do I need a visa to transit through Mauritius?
A2: Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check the official Mauritius immigration website for the latest information.

Q3: What is the currency exchange like at MRU?
A3: MRU has several currency exchange counters offering competitive rates. You can also find ATMs for cash withdrawals.

Q4: How far is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) from Port Louis?
A4: MRU is approximately 48 kilometers (30 miles) from Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius. The journey takes around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic.

Q5: Are there direct flights from the US to Mauritius?
A5: Currently, there are no direct flights from the US to Mauritius. Most routes involve connecting flights through Europe or the Middle East.

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