Private Jet from Madagascar: Jet Prime Ltd Under Scrutiny

Title: Private Jet from Madagascar: Jet Prime Ltd Under Scrutiny

Content: The procedures governing the operation of private flights in Mauritius are set to be reviewed. The Civil Aviation Department is revising its protocols to adapt to new challenges in the sector. The operations of Jet Prime Ltd, a subsidiary of Airport Holdings Ltd, are also under thorough examination. This was indicated in a statement from the Cabinet on Friday, October 17.

According to the Cabinet, Jet Prime Ltd, a subsidiary of Airport Holdings Ltd, submitted a request on behalf of Trans Ocean Airways on Sunday, October 12, to land a private jet in Mauritius for tourism purposes. This request was approved by the Civil Aviation Department, which raised several questions.

The aircraft landed at 12:44 AM with five passengers on board, including the former Malagasy Prime Minister, a businessman, and two crew members. However, it was revealed that the plane had departed Madagascar without prior authorization from the Mauritian Civil Aviation Department and without a filed flight plan, thus violating the provisions of the Mauritius Aeronautical Information Publication, issued under Regulation 135 of the Civil Aviation Regulations.

In light of the situation, the landing authorization was eventually granted after approval from the Passport and Immigration Office and Airports of Mauritius Co. Ltd, as the pilot reported a low fuel level. This decision was made in the interest of safety, in accordance with the recommendations of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

An internal investigation is being conducted by the Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Public Service to clarify this incident. Meanwhile, the interim director of Civil Aviation has referred the matter to the police, believing that a criminal offense may have been committed by the pilot, who did not submit his authorization request at least ten hours before the scheduled flight. The police are expected to consult the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to decide on potential charges.

According to reported information, the former Prime Minister and one of the pilots have already left Mauritius, while businessman Maminiaina Ravatomanga remains in the country. He is currently under investigation by the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC).