A total of 41 airlines are currently operating flights to Velana International Airport, according to Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), marking an increase compared to the end of last year.
The Maldives continues to attract international carriers, with recent developments showing a rise in airline operations despite disruptions linked to unrest in the Middle East. Some airlines that had temporarily suspended services to neighbouring destinations have resumed flights to the Maldives.
The government has taken steps to expand airline connectivity by increasing non-transit routes and attracting carriers from regions beyond the Middle East, reducing reliance on traditional transit hubs.
MACL reported that 41 international airlines are now flying to the Maldives, up from 35 recorded at the end of December last year, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment.
Speaking at a press conference held by a ministerial committee at the President’s Office, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen said private jet arrivals have also increased significantly. He added that efforts are underway to diversify flight routes, with more airlines from different regions launching or planning services to the Maldives.
“Compared to March alone, jet handling has increased by around 125 to 130 per cent. Around 80 jets were recorded in March previously, but this rose to about 190 jets,” he said.
The minister also noted increased flight frequencies from carriers such as Edelweiss Air, AirAsia, Air India and Turkish Airlines.
According to available data, the majority of airlines currently operating in the Maldives are based in Asia, with 16 carriers, followed by 13 from Europe and six from the Middle East.