Air Mauritius: Recoura’s Allegations of Political Vendetta Amid Suspension

Laurent Recoura, the former Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Air Mauritius, is currently in Oslo, Norway, reflecting on his recent departure from the airline. Suspended since May, Recoura was set to face a disciplinary committee this week but chose to leave the country instead.

In a notable twist, Air Mauritius has filed a complaint with the Financial Crimes Commission (FCC), initiating an inquiry into his conduct. Recoura, however, maintained that he is a victim of a “political vendetta.”

A Challenge From Within

Recoura claimed the underlying issues within Air Mauritius stem from a “clan rivalry,” suggesting an internal conflict between Airport Holdings Ltd (AHL) and various individuals.

He recounted his recruitment journey, stating he stepped into the role as a professional, approved by the board, without any prior connections on the island.

During his tenure, he claimed that the company achieved unprecedented revenue and record profits.

However, as soon as the new CEO took his position, Recoura felt pressured.

He stated, “I made it clear I was not there for anyone but for Air Mauritius.”

He described a hostile environment where colleagues associated with AHL faced threats, suspensions, and transfers.

Recoura himself was subjected to harassment, his work responsibilities significantly diminished.

On May 19, he recounted being coerced into resigning under the assertion that the CEO had lost trust in him, primarily due to his past connections with Ken Arian.

“I refused to resign,” he affirmed, marking the beginning of escalating tensions.

Negotiations and Allegations

Following his suspension, Recoura indicated that discussions were underway for a mutually agreeable separation package, which the CEO opposed vehemently.

The situation escalated when the CEO accused Recoura of misconduct, alleging he provided a ticket to a Swiss journalist and suggesting this constituted influence peddling and corruption—a claim that Recoura described as unfounded.

He explained that the ticket given to the journalist stemmed from a marketing event hosted by Air Mauritius and the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA) in Geneva, before the CEO’s arrival.

According to Recoura, the nature of the event and ticket giveaway was routine for business practices and not an act of misconduct.

Departure and Future Plans

Concerned about his treatment and the impending summons from the FCC, Recoura opted to travel to Norway for a private visit.

Amidst this backdrop, he submitted his resignation, explaining in his letter that he felt compelled to leave due to the CEO’s actions and the misinformation circulating about him.

Looking ahead, he is planning to pursue legal action for wrongful dismissal, noting that his career trajectory now necessitates new opportunities.

“With my reputation tarnished, moving forward is essential,” he stated, emphasizing that he seeks justice against the allegations he faces.

Reflecting on his tenure at Air Mauritius, Recoura expressed pride in reviving the airline, stating he joined when it was in dire straits, having just emerged from voluntary administration.

He was instrumental in re-establishing multiple routes, including services to major destinations like Perth and London, culminating in financial stability for the airline.

Contentious Route Cancellations

Recoura also addressed the cessation of flights to Rome, which he claims were discontinued based on misconceptions.

“The claim of no market study is false. We had conducted an extensive review prior to proposing the route,” he insisted, arguing that Rome represented a vital market opportunity given Italy’s significant contribution to Mauritius’s tourism sector.

Many stakeholders who had invested in the Rome service now feel let down by Air Mauritius, as previously sold tickets created expectations that remain unfulfilled.

Looking Back After Departure

Despite his tumultuous exit, Recoura looked back fondly on his time at Air Mauritius.

He insisted that his commitment to nurturing the airline’s potential was well-recognized by those within the aviation ecosystem.

“Leaving with my reputation in shambles is difficult, yet I feel encouraged by the progress made during my tenure,” he concluded.

Recoura, aged 60, hails from Toulouse, France, with a long-standing family tradition in aviation.

His diverse experience spans several countries, cementing his reputation as a leader who champions honesty and dedication.

Now, with his departure finalized, Recoura is aiming to safeguard his professional future while contesting the allegations against him.

Air Mauritius Responds

In a statement following Recoura’s resignation, Atma Bumma, Air Mauritius’ head of communication, confirmed receipt of the resignation letter and characterized his departure as voluntary, noting that Recoura had declined offers to negotiate an amicable departure.

“He decided to leave before presenting his case to the disciplinary committee.

We believe in the justice of our process,” Bumma asserted, suggesting the evidence against Recoura was considerable.

Source: Defi Media