In a statement released today, ANA - Aeroportos Portugal emphasised that the connection "strengthens the airline's presence in Portugal and responds to the growing interest of French travellers in the Autonomous Region of Madeira."

"The new weekly flight operates on Sundays and is another step in expanding the region's air connectivity," ANA stated, noting that passengers on Sunday's inaugural flight received flowers and regional products upon arrival in Madeira.

Quoted in the note, ANA's commercial director, Karen Stougo, highlights that this is the first time that "this French destination has a direct connection with the archipelago, operated by Transavia" and underlines "the increasingly important role" of the company "in the growth of the French market for Madeira".