The Maldives and Australia will be able to operate unrestricted direct flights from today, Mohamed Ameen, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, has announced.
The development follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the aeronautical authorities of the two countries to advance a bilateral air services agreement.
In a post on social media, Transport Minister Ameen said the agreement removes restrictions on airline operations between the Maldives and Australia, creating new opportunities for travel, tourism and trade.
The government said the move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen the Maldives’ transport network and improve connectivity for passengers. Several key air and sea transport projects are currently under way as part of this strategy.
The agreement was signed on behalf of the Maldives by Abdul Haris, Chairman of the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority. Jim Wolf, Assistant Secretary for International Aviation at Australia’s Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts, signed on behalf of the Australian government.
According to the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority, the agreement reflects the close relationship between the Maldives and Australia and highlights ongoing efforts to enhance air connectivity between the two countries. The authority says the removal of restrictions is expected to facilitate increased airline operations, further supporting tourism growth and expanding trade links between the Maldives and Australia.