Rodrigues Island Airport

Welcome to Rodrigues Airport, also known as Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport — the aerial gateway to one of the most serene and authentic islands in the Indian Ocean. This is not merely a transport hub, but the very first point of contact with the unique atmosphere of Rodrigues, where the rhythm of life slows down, giving way to tranquility and unity with nature. Compact and welcoming, this airport provides the key link between the island and Mauritius, serving as the starting point for unforgettable adventures in this secluded paradise.

The main advantage of Rodrigues Airport is its compactness and simplicity, allowing passengers to complete all formalities quickly and without unnecessary fuss, immediately immersing themselves in the relaxed island lifestyle. Despite its modest size, it plays a crucial role in the region's economy and tourism appeal. The airport primarily handles turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 72, which in itself becomes part of the exotic journey. The air harbour is named after Sir Gaëtan Duval, a former Deputy Prime Minister of Mauritius who made a significant contribution to the development of Rodrigues, highlighting its cultural importance to the local population.

• Official Website: Rodrigues Airport does not have its own separate website. All official information is published on the portal of the management company, Airports of Mauritius Ltd (AML): aml.aero.
• Information Desk Phone: +230 831 1667
• Address: Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport, Plaine Corail, Rodrigues Island, Mauritius
• Email: For general enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact email of the management company AML: info@aml.aero.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain separate social media pages. News and updates can be followed on the official channels of Airports of Mauritius Ltd.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the Lost & Found service of your airline directly at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For enquiries and immediate assistance, passengers are advised to use the main airport information desk phone number.

Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport (IATA: RRG), the main and only airport on the island of Rodrigues, is located in Plaine Corail, on the southwestern tip of the island. Getting there from the capital, Port Mathurin, or other resort areas is quite straightforward. Travellers have several transport options available, varying in cost, speed, and comfort level.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to move around the island. A network of bus routes connects most settlements with Plaine Corail. While this is a great opportunity to observe local life, it is worth noting that buses run on a schedule that may not be very convenient, especially during early morning or late evening hours. Additionally, travelling with a large amount of luggage on a bus can be challenging. The fare is minimal, but the travel time will be the longest.

Taxi and Private Transfer are the most convenient and fastest ways to get to the airport. Taxis can be found in Port Mathurin and other large settlements or ordered by phone. It is strongly recommended to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as not all cars are equipped with meters. Another reliable option is to book a transfer through your hotel or a travel agency. This saves you from unnecessary hassle, especially if you are travelling with children or bulky luggage.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom and flexibility. By renting a car, you can not only reach the airport on time but also explore the picturesque corners of the island at your own pace. Car rental desks are located both at the airport itself and in Port Mathurin. During the peak tourist season, it is advisable to book a car in advance. The roads on the island are generally of good quality, but be prepared for narrow and winding sections. The drive from Port Mathurin to the airport by car will take approximately 30-40 minutes.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal, which is convenient for departing passengers. In general, the choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and personal preferences. For a comfortable and predictable journey, taxis or car rentals are best suited, while for an economical trip, the local bus is the way to go.

Rodrigues Airport (Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport) is a small and very compact airport, making navigation extremely simple. Its structure is designed to accommodate a small flow of passengers, predominantly consisting of flights to the main island of Mauritius and back.

The airport has just one passenger terminal, which serves both arriving and departing flights. The terminal building is single-storey, and all key zones are located within walking distance of each other; it is practically impossible to get lost here. Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated but are situated within the same general space. Immediately after entering the terminal, you will see the check-in counters, and a little further on — the security screening area and the boarding gate.

Thanks to its compact size and limited number of flights, all pre-flight procedures, including check-in and security screening, generally proceed very quickly and without long queues. Usually, this takes no more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all formalities calmly.

Since there is only one terminal, there are no transfers between terminals. Navigation is intuitive: signs lead passengers from the entrance to the check-in counters, then to the security zone, and finally to a small waiting hall before the boarding gate. The arrival zone is equally simple — after disembarking from the plane, passengers proceed immediately to the baggage claim hall and the airport exit, where taxis and transfers await them.

Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport, better known as Rodrigues Airport (RRG), is not just an air gateway but a true lifeline for the island of Rodrigues. Its history began in 1972, when a small runway was opened. This event was a turning point for the island, which until then had been connected to the outside world, primarily Mauritius, only by lengthy sea voyages. The arrival of aviation drastically reduced travel time and marked the beginning of a new era in the island's development.

Initially, the airfield could only accommodate small aircraft. A key stage of development was the modernisation that allowed for the servicing of turboprop liners such as the ATR. In 2002, the airport underwent its most significant transformation to date: the runway was significantly lengthened and widened, and a new, more modern and spacious terminal was opened. It was then that the air harbour was named after Sir Gaëtan Duval, a prominent Mauritian politician who made a great contribution to the development of Rodrigues.

These improvements allowed for the launch of regular flights on larger ATR 72 aircraft, which gave a powerful boost to the development of tourism and the island's economy. Today, Rodrigues Airport is a modern regional hub that reliably connects the island with Mauritius. Future plans include an even more ambitious project: the construction of a new, longer runway capable of receiving medium-haul jet aircraft. This will open up opportunities for direct flights from other countries and take the island's accessibility to a new level.

Over the years of its existence, the airport has not set world records for passenger traffic, but its main achievement is the transformation of an entire island. From an isolated territory, Rodrigues has turned into an attractive tourist destination while preserving its unique authenticity. Interesting fact: the airport is located in the Plaine Corail area — one of the few flat sections on the predominantly hilly island, and landing here offers passengers breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon.

Rodrigues Airport, despite its compact size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you will find all the essentials to begin or end your journey on the island.

For those feeling hungry, there is a small café in the terminal where you can have a snack, coffee, or refreshing drinks. There are also several shops offering souvenirs, local goods, and daily necessities. This is an excellent opportunity to buy gifts as a memento of your trip to Rodrigues.

Passengers wishing to spend time in a quieter setting can use the services of the premium lounge. Free Wi-Fi is available for all travellers in the airport building, and power outlets for charging electronic devices can be found in the waiting areas. The terminal has ATMs and a currency exchange point where financial matters can be settled upon arrival or before departure.

The airport is equipped for the needs of various categories of passengers. For travellers with children, mother and child rooms are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance and an accessible environment, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. In case of need, a medical point operates at the airport to provide first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options — from cosy guest houses to comfortable hotels — are located a few minutes' drive away. Specialised business centres or conference halls are absent from the terminal building, which is typical for small regional airports.

Rodrigues Island Airport is a small and compact transport hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Travellers should not expect a wide variety of restaurants as found in large international airports. Nevertheless, there is an opportunity to have a snack before departure or after arrival.

The main place to eat at Rodrigues Airport (RRG) is a small cafeteria or snack bar. It is located in the general hall of the terminal, in the landside area (before security control), making it accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. Here you can have a quick bite or a drink while waiting for a flight.

The menu typically includes:

• Quick snacks: Sandwiches, pastries, crisps, and other snacks.
• Hot and cold beverages: Coffee, tea, juices, water, and carbonated drinks.
• Local specialities: Sometimes traditional treats, such as pies or sweets, can be found on sale, offering a chance to taste the cuisine of Rodrigues.

For travellers with strict dietary restrictions (such as vegan, gluten-free, or specific Halal requirements), the choice will be extremely limited, and specialised meals are likely to be unavailable. In such cases, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are moderate but may be slightly higher than the average on the island. The cafeteria's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule — it is open during the hours before and after the arrival and departure of aircraft. If you plan a full lunch or dinner, it is better to do so at one of the restaurants in the island's towns, for example in Port Mathurin, before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Rodrigues Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. Since this is a small regional airport mainly serving domestic flights, there is no need to arrive 3-4 hours before departure. Generally, arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure is sufficient. This allows enough time to calmly pass through check-in and security screening, which are organised simply and without large queues here. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance to speed up the process.

Standard international rules apply during security screening: liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Pay special attention to the transport of plants or agricultural products — strict phytosanitary regulations apply on the islands. The flight between the island of Rodrigues and the main part of Mauritius is very picturesque, so try to get a window seat to enjoy views of the coral reefs and the turquoise ocean.

If you have a connecting flight, check at registration whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to your final destination. Customs control for domestic flights is usually formal, but upon departure from the island, you may be checked for the export of protected flora and fauna species, such as corals or rare shells. To save time, check in for your flight online, and to save money, book your flight tickets and airport transfer in advance. It is also worth taking a light snack with you, as the food selection in the small airport may be limited.

In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative first for the latest information. Clarify if you are entitled to vouchers for food or drinks. Given the modest size of the airport and limited amenities, it is recommended to have a portable charger (power bank) and pre-downloaded films or books with you in case of a long wait. This will help you pass the time in comfort.