Written By: Meera Moosa

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In a destination where miles of deep blues separate over a thousand idyllic islands, from the earliest of days, islanders set sail on a traditional wooden ‘dhoani’. For many days and nights, the people travel the seas from island to island, and travel for weeks and months to get to neighbouring countries. As times changed and the borders got closer and closer, the island archipelago evolved too. Once a long quest through the azure seas soon became a scenic flight above the islands dotted across the Indian Ocean. 

With a fleet of just two aircraft and a greater vision, Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, began its humble journey in the aviation industry in 2000. Carrying more than passengers — the airline carries the spirit of the Maldives. It stands as a symbol of national pride and development, bridging the chain of emerald islands and beyond. Maldivian — the friendliest airline with unparalleled excellence, offers a seamless, comfortable and safe flight along with a touch of the famed local hospitality.

Maldivian’s mission goes deeper than connecting destinations. It connects people, cultures, and dreams. From the tiny islands of Maldives to the Great Wall of China, the airline offers direct flights to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. Far from the white sandy beaches, travellers can explore China’s rich history, authentic culture, iconic landmarks and soulful cuisines with Maldivian.  

Every corner of Beijing — the capital city of China, tells the stories of century old dynasties, philosophy, art, and vivid culture. From century-old temples and art filled walls, to the lanterns that light up the night and the aromatic delicacies served at the restaurants along with intriguing stories, Beijing offers a warm embrace for travellers looking to explore. Much like the Maldivian laid-back lifestyle, Chengdu is perfect for those seeking an escape from the city rush. Here, travellers can visit the pandas, explore teahouses, and enjoy the slow movement of the days. As the day ends, the vibrant night begins at Chengdu.

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Travellers can explore the misty peaks of Mount Qingcheng, the theatrical performances at Shu Feng Ya Yun Opera House, or enjoy a pot of freshly brewed tea at one of the many teahouses or a Sichuan hot pot at a cozy restaurant. Shanghai, China’s dazzling metropolis, features skyscrapers that reach the clouds. Renowned as a modern finance and fashion city, Shanghai offers luxury with Michelin-star dining and boutique shopping. But beneath that, authentic dumpling stalls, historical buildings, and state-of-the-art museums call out for those who look deeper.

From the ancient temples in Beijing, the futuristic skyline of Lujiazui at Shanghai, to the vibrant culture of Chengdu, travellers can easily book the next adventure with Maldivian airline. For years, China has been a significant partner in the travel and tourism industry with close to 15% of the tourists arriving to the Maldives being from China. Now, the direct routes have brought the Maldives and China even closer, making it easier than ever for Chinese travellers to explore the Maldives as well as for Maldivians to discover the beauty of China.

In addition to the direct flights to China, Maldivian also operates to two cities in India: Trivandrum and Cochin. As cities frequently travelled to by Maldivians for healthcare, education, and leisure the direct routes have greatly enhanced access over the years. These routes have also improved connectivity by serving as a transit hub for international travellers seeking an island escape to the Maldives. Within the Maldives, the airline operates to a total of seventeen destinations across the twenty-six atolls including Gan International Airport in Addu City and Maafaru International Airport in Noonu Atoll.

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Today, with a fleet of 26 aircraft, Maldivian operates to five destinations internationally and seventeen destinations in the Maldives. Its fleet consists of one A320, one A330-200, eight Dash 8 aircraft, eleven DHC-6 Twin Otters, and five ATRs. As the airline continues to evolve, one thing remains the same — its vision, the warm hospitality, and the spirit of the Maldives. Maldivian offers more than just wings, it offers travellers a convenient, effortless and affordable journey to continue exploring. It brings people, communities, and destinations closer with one flight at a time.