Maldivian to Launch First Direct Flights Between Australia and the Maldives

Plans have already been announced by Maldivian to launch the first-ever direct airline route between the Maldives and Australia and this has been a huge advancement in connectivity of tourism between the two nations. The weekly flight, Melbourne to Malé, is set to start operating seasonally on 17 May 2026 provided that the Australian authorities grant the necessary regulatory approvals and will be operated together with the Australian travel company Luxury Escapes.
The service will be the first direct flight of Maldivian to Australia, and the sole non-stop flight between the two destinations once it gets started. Today, Australian travellers are being made to travel through international hubs before flying to the Maldives. The low-cost airline should cut down the travel time considerably and be more comfortable and convenient, especially to the holiday makers visiting the island country.
The Maldives has always had a significant long-haul market in Australia where visitors have been characterized to have extended stays. Maldivian has already ensured the arrival time of flights on the Malé will be synchronized with domestic and seaplanes, which will provide a comfortable continuation to the resorts and local islands around the country.
The new route was a historic move, and Maldivian Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas said that it would help in enhancing the bilateral relationship and tourism development. According to the CEO of Luxury Escapes, Adam Schwab, the Maldives travel was highly demanded in 2026, with the number of bookings of the destination growing as well as the five to six years of stay. Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus also said that the service will make Melbourne the only Australian city that has a direct connection with the Maldives.
This route allows Maldivian to increase its international destinations and improve access to one of the major tourism markets of the country.