Madagascar Private Jets Face New Approval Rule After Gold Seizure
Madagascar private jets now need special approval from the president or prime minister, after a gold seizure at Ivato airport and an earlier jet scandal. The post Madagascar Private Jets Face New Approval Rule After Gold Seizure appeared first on The Rio Times .
Madagascar's private jet industry faces a new approval rule after a gold seizure at Ivato International Airport. Starting September 12, 2026, each private jet departing the country must receive clearance from either President Michaël Randrianirina or Prime Minister Mamitiana Rajaonarison. This rule was approved by the Council of Ministers on the same day as the seizure.
The gold, weighing 5.75 kg initially and later confirmed at 5 kg 678 g, was seized by customs officers who found it on a woman's luggage at the airport. Seven people are implicated in the gold case, including customs agents and airport security employees. Randrianirina, who took office in October 2025, plans to place dedicated agents at every inspection step to prevent similar incidents.
The rule also follows a flight in October 2025 where former Prime Minister Christian Ntsay and businessman Mamy Ravatomanga were aboard a Cessna jet that left Ivato without proper authorization. Following this incident, the Civil Aviation of Madagascar filed a complaint with the Anti-Corruption Pole, which is now investigating several individuals.
The new rule is expected to increase scrutiny on gold exports and freight shipments from Ivato, with all airport personnel to be searched. The impact on business travelers, mining firms, and charter operators remains to be seen.
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