Madagascar Airlines chief executive Thierry de Bailleul is stepping down from his post, effective immediately, citing tensions within the company.
De Bailleul’s decision comes as Madagascar faces political turmoil, with attempts by military personnel to oust the country’s president, Andry Rajoelina.
The carrier says de Bailleul has opted to “step back from his duties” in a “spirit of responsibility”.
It states that his decision aims to “safeguard the company’s stability” and “ensure the continuity of the national air service” amid a “challenging social and economic environment”.
Madagascar Airlines has been dealing with the impact of social instability across the country – leading to protests in several cities and a curfew, particularly in the capital Antananarivo – since 25 September.
The airline has been forced to adapt its schedule daily, leading to cancellations and delays, with restrictions preventing it from meeting demand – stranding passengers in various locations.
Madagascar Airlines points out that it had been gradually recovering over the last 18 months, expanding its fleet to five aircraft from “barely one” and surpassing pre-pandemic capacity levels this year.
“Lessors’ confidence has been successfully restored,” it says, and adds that the airline’s recovery efforts have been financed by international lenders and institutional partners.
Madagascar Airlines has also been expecting a return to “financial balance” by the end of this year, following reductions in quarterly losses.
Without disclosing details, the carrier says internal communications have “created a climate of tension” which have led to de Bailleul’s decision.
De Bailleul has proposed that the airline’s executive committee collectively ensures operational continuity, expressing concern over the potential impact of managerial instability.
Madagascar’s presidential office has condemned “in the strongest terms” the acts of “military rebels” who, it says, are engaging in a “clear act of attempted coup d’etat”.
