After starting its routes to mainland France two years ago (Paris daily, and bi-weekly flights to Marseilles and Lyons) with its B777, Air Austral is now inaugurating its first destination in the Far East.

As from 24 November 2006, two flights a week will be operated from Reunion to Bangkok. Direct flights leave Reunion on a Monday and a Friday, return on a Tuesday and a Saturday.

Flights are operated in code-share with Air Madagascar with a B767.

An agreement concluded with Thai Airways will enable passengers to connect from Bangkok to numerous destinations in the East, among others Singapore and cities in China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia.

Regionally, within the Indian Ocean and Africa, Air Austral flies to Johannesburg, Mauritius, Madagascar (four destinations), Mayotte, Comores and Seychelles.

Air Austral is more than ever committed to promoting Reunion Island and is increasingly investing in the Indian Ocean region.

Their weekly flight on a Sunday takes travellers from Johannesburg to Reunion in just under four hours, while additional flights on a Thursday cater for increased demand in high season.

The airline currently has a special offer to Reunion of R2300 return and to Mauritius (via Reunion) return for R3560 excluding taxes. These fares are subject to availability and valid until 10 December.

If you're planning on hopping around the region, the Indian Ocean pass (in collaboration with Air Mauritius and Air Seychelles) allows for easy travel between a range of stunning tropical islands. The pass can only be bought by passengers residing outside the Indian Ocean region, in conjunction with an international air ticket and fares are based on sectors required.

Air Austral operates several flights a day between Reunion and Mauritius, daily flights to Mayotte, several flights a week from Reunion and from Mayotte to Nosy Be as well as regular scheduled flights to other Indian Ocean destinations.