Malaysia Airlines has recommenced its daily Kuala Lumpur to Maldives Boeing 737-800 flight after a six-year break.
The four-hour 15-minute direct flight from KL International Airport (KUL) was welcomed with a water salute at the Velana International Airport (MLE). It departed Malaysia at 10.10am and arrived at 11.25am local time.
The new flight, which has a capacity of 174 passengers, is the airline’s 13th destination in South Asia, reinforcing its commitment to expanding its presence in key markets, it said. The new route strengthens Malaysia Airlines’ position as the gateway to Asia and beyond. Malaysia Airlines last operated direct flights to the Maldives in 2017.
It has also announced new destinations, including Chiang Mai, Thailand (starting 15 August) and Danang, Vietnam (starting 24 September).
“We are thrilled to be flying back to Maldives, which enhances our strategic vision of connecting travellers to some of the world’s most captivating destinations,” CEO of Airlines from MAG, Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, said.
“By offering direct flights to the Maldives, we aim to position Malaysia Airlines as the top choice for those seeking both luxury and cultural richness. It also signifies a strategic initiative to solidify our standing in the luxury travel segment, showcasing our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of discerning travellers and strengthening our competitive edge in the market.”
In conjunction with the launch of the new route, Malaysia Airlines is offering special promotional fares from now until 31 August 2024 for travellers to explore Maldives. Under the theme ‘The Time for the Maldives’, all-in return fares start from AU$869 for Economy Class and are available for travel until 30 March 2025.
“The resumption of direct flights between the Maldives and Malaysia via Malaysia Airlines is expected not only to boost arrivals but also to diversify our tourism base,” CEO and managing director of Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation, Ibrahim Shiuree, said.
“Collaborative partnerships such as these underscores MMPRC’s commitment to strengthening connectivity and accessibility for our visitors from Southeast Asia and around the world.”
Malaysia Airlines currently operates 53 weekly flights between Australia & New Zealand and Malaysia. Serving as the gateway to Asia, the airline offers seamless connectivity to over 50 destinations in Malaysia, ASEAN, North Asia, South Asia, and United Kingdom.