A total of 41 airlines are currently operating flights to Velana International Airport, according to the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), reflecting an increase compared to the end of last year.
The Maldives continues to maintain strong appeal among international carriers, with recent data showing a rise in airline operations despite earlier disruptions linked to unrest in the Middle East. Several airlines that had temporarily suspended services to neighbouring destinations have since resumed operations to the Maldives.
Authorities have also been working to strengthen air connectivity by expanding non-transit routes and encouraging airlines from new regions to operate direct services, reducing dependence on traditional transit hubs.
MACL confirmed that the number of international airlines operating to the Maldives has increased from 35 at the end of December last year to 41 currently, according to figures from 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 stated that private jet arrivals have also seen a sharp rise. He noted that efforts are ongoing to diversify air routes, with more carriers 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 further highlighted increased flight frequencies from airlines such as Edelweiss Air, AirAsia, Air India, and Turkish Airlines.
Available data shows that the majority of airlines operating in the Maldives are based in Asia, with 16 carriers, followed by 13 from Europe and six from the Middle East.
