MNAs impressed by airport’s customer service |27 August 2009

They were shown Air Seychelles’ CIP Premium Lounge – the Salon Vallée de Mai – and the VIP Lounge run by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs among other facilities during their visit.

The team who toured the airport comprised IAC chairman and MNA for Grand Anse Mahe Waven William, MNA for Port Glaud Ginette Gamatis and MNA for Bel Ombre Nicholas Prea.

Other committee members – Jennifer Vel, Charles De Commarmond, Clifford Andre and Anthony Derjacques – were visiting other institutions during the day.

The group first visited the government-run VIP Lounge, along with officials from the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and were briefed on the procedures for using the lounge, the services available, and the security and customs measures for arrivals and departures.

The MNAs then went to the CIP Premium Lounge managed by Air Seychelles, where they were given a tour by the airline’s executive chairman, Captain David Savy, who briefed them on the facilities and services available.

He told them the lounge provides a world-class facility to meet the demands of passengers wanting to relax in a comfortable setting before travelling.

“Our CIP Premium Lounge reflects the unique beauty of Seychelles and the warmth of the Creole Spirit,” he said.
 “It is designed to a very high standard, making it one of the best premium lounges within the Indian Ocean region.”

Captain Savy also showed the MNAs the reception and luggage storage area, the self-service buffet and bar area, the free internet services in the business area, the selection of local and international newspapers and magazines, and facilities for freshening up, including showers.

The members were told about access to the Premium Lounge, whereby business class passengers get complimentary admission.

 Vouchers can also be bought at check-in, Air Seychelles’ sales offices or the Trezor duty-free shop in the departure lounge.
At the end of the tour, Mrs Gamatis said: “I am very impressed with the lounge and the service and facilities available.”

Mr William added: “I acknowledge the effort being made with tight resources and think more support should be given, so the national airline can offer even better services to customers.”

And Mr Prea said: “Air Seychelles is marketing a top-class product. My visit today is a first impression that will last forever – keep it up.”

Captain Savy also took the MNAs around the new check-in facilities being built as part of a renovation project carried out jointly by the SCAA and Air Seychelles.

“It is encouraging to see that the policymakers are taking a keen interest in projects and other customer service-related facilities aimed at enhancing standards,” he said.

“This will give them a better appreciation of the issues at hand and equip them to have meaningful debates at the National Assembly if these issues arise.”