The airline’s first destination in China is Chengdu, and the inaugural flight from Chengdu to the Maldives has already attracted a significant number of travelers. Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal stated that the flights will provide a significant boost to the country’s tourism sector, with 40,000 tourists expected from the Chinese market alone through this initiative.
Last year, approximately 270,000 tourists from China visited the Maldives, highlighting the importance of this market. Minister Faisal also revealed plans for further expansion, announcing that the President has committed to acquiring an additional aircraft to begin flights to Europe.
The first flight from the Maldives to Chengdu departed on Wednesday, while the first inbound flight from Chengdu arrived in the Maldives earlier on Thursday, carrying a total of 192 passengers. Among them, 172 were tourists, according to Maldivian Airlines.
Passengers on our inaugural flight from Chengdu were welcomed with traditional Boduberu beats and flowers, showcasing the unique Maldivian hospitality that awaits every traveler. #Maldivianaero #Maldives #China #chengdu pic.twitter.com/zXp10bDIOl
— MaldivianAero (@MaldivianAero) January 23, 2025
This new route is anticipated to strengthen tourism ties between the Maldives and China, contributing significantly to the growth of the nation’s tourism industry.