Direct Melbourne Flights Target 11,000 New Annual Visitors to the Maldives

The national carrier, Maldivian, and the Visit Maldives Corporation have launched a strategic promotional campaign in Australia, aiming to attract 11,000 additional annual visitors through newly established direct flight connections. The initiative coincides with the launch of weekly 11-hour flights between Melbourne and Malé, designed to solidify the Maldives' position as a premier luxury and honeymoon destination. Starting May 19, flights will depart the Maldives every Sunday and return on Tuesdays. The selection of Melbourne as a hub followed extensive market research identifying Australia as a high-growth source market. Ahmed Rameez, Financial Controller for Maldivian, noted that total arrivals from Australia reached 40,000 in 2025, marking a 17 percent increase over the previous year. Early demand for the new route has been exceptionally strong. The first three scheduled flights have already reached 100 percent capacity, with each aircraft carrying 264 passengers. Through November, overall flight capacity is already at 50 percent. Rameez indicated that maintaining this momentum is expected to boost resort occupancy and increase government tax revenue via higher tourist spending. To support the airline's operations, the Visit Maldives Corporation has formalized a partnership with Luxury Escapes. A memorandum of understanding signed on May 16 at the company's Melbourne headquarters will facilitate joint marketing efforts and deepen ties between the two entities. As part of the promotional drive, representatives met with Adam Schwab, CEO of Luxury Escapes, and hosted a 'Discover Maldives' pavilion at the Luxury Escapes Live 2026 exhibition. The event provided prospective Australian travelers with tailored promotional offers and comprehensive details on luxury accommodations across the archipelago, ensuring the destination remains competitive in the expanding Australian market.