Celebrating Seychelles’ Gateway to the World

20 March 2026

As Seychelles marks the 54th anniversary of Seychelles International Airport (SIA), we celebrate more than a milestone in time. We celebrate the gateway that transformed how the nation connects, travels, trades, and engages with the world.

On 20th March 1972, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II officially inaugurated Seychelles International Airport at Pointe Larue, marking the country’s entry into the era of modern aviation. Built on reclaimed land along Mahé’s eastern coastline, the airport was one of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken in Seychelles and a clear statement of national vision. By 1971, the runway was already receiving jet aircraft, opening new opportunities for tourism, trade, and international connectivity, and the official opening in 1972 confirmed the airport’s role as a symbol of progress.

Over the decades, aviation in Seychelles has grown steadily, with expanding air services, increasing passenger numbers, and continuous improvements to airport facilities. Today, the airport stands not only as vital infrastructure, but also as a place shaped by the dedication of generations of employees who have helped keep the nation connected to the world.

Looking ahead, the Seychelles Airports Authority will focus on and operational efficiency, while continuing to modernise infrastructure, enhance passenger experience, reinforce safety and security, and promote sustainability across all operations. Investment in airport facilities remains a priority to address capacity constraints and support future growth.

Among the Authority’s key priorities is the continued development of terminal facilities to meet future demand, along with related infrastructure improvements. In the short term, efforts will focus on maintaining smooth operations through ongoing upgrades, replacement of ageing equipment, and enhancements to operational processes, supported by careful financial management to ensure sustainable progress.

Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Airports Authority, Mr. Colin Chang-Tave expresses,

“As someone who has spent the greater part of my career working in the aviation sector, and within the Seychelles International Airport in particular, I take great pride in seeing how far our organisation continues to grow. This milestone reflects the dedication of our staff and our shared commitment to our vision of being a leading organisation bringing excellence to the travel experience.

Every improvement we make is guided by our mission to provide the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and service across Seychelles’ airports and air space, ensuring that passengers, partners, and the wider community can always rely on the quality and professionalism we stand for.

Looking ahead, the Seychelles Airports Authority will continue to focus on operational efficiency while modernising infrastructure, enhancing the passenger experience, reinforcing safety and security, and promoting sustainability across all operations. Investment in airport facilities remains a priority to address capacity constraints and support future growth, as we continue to strengthen our capabilities and ensure that our airports remain fit for the demands of the future.”

The Authority expresses its appreciation to the Government of Seychelles for its continued support, which enables us to carry forward its mandate of developing and managing the country’s airport infrastructure.

As we mark this anniversary, we honour both the historic opening of 1972 and the living institution manned by a devoted and time-tested workforce that continues to serve the nation today. From its reclaimed beginnings at Pointe Larue to its role as a modern aviation destination, Seychelles International Airport remains a powerful symbol of vision, progress, and connection.