Claim for Over Rs 91 Million in Damages: Charles Cartier Discusses Air Mauritius' Contract Breach

Former CEO of Air Mauritius, Charles Cartier, is contesting the termination of his contract in the Supreme Court. He is claiming over Rs 91 million in damages, asserting that the national airline committed a contractual breach during his dismissal.

After receiving a formal notice in July 2025, Cartier filed a complaint with the Supreme Court on Monday, October 13, 2025, to challenge the termination of his employment contract. He is seeking Rs 91,095,432 in damages, alleging that he was a victim of a 'contractual fault.' The case is scheduled to be heard on November 6, 2025.

In his complaint, Cartier states that he was appointed as CEO of Air Mauritius on March 6, 2024, for a three-year term. His base monthly salary was Rs 750,000, supplemented by a fixed allowance of Rs 100,000, a car allowance of Rs 100,000, and a fuel allowance. He also received preferential airfare tickets and other benefits related to his position. His net earnings for January 2025 amounted to Rs 975,319.

On February 6, 2025, Cartier claims he was informed that he was relieved from his duties after shareholders decided not to re-elect him as CEO. The letter he received stated: "Further to the Annual Meeting of Shareholders held today, Thursday, February 6, 2025, at which the Shareholders of the Company did not re-elect you as a Director, we regret to inform you that by virtue of Article 23.1.3 of the Constitution of the Company, you have ipso facto immediately ceased to be the Chief Executive Officer of the Company."

He views this decision as 'unilateral' and 'contrary' to the clauses of his contract, which stipulated a specific procedure in case of termination. In his complaint, the former CEO is claiming Rs 91,095,432, including payment for the remaining contract period, accrued leave, severance pay, the planned airfare tickets, and Rs 50 million for moral damages.

Charles Cartier is represented by attorneys Shadmeenee Mootien and Pazany Thandarayan.