Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has announced a significant expansion of its distribution network through a strategic partnership with Amadeus Global Distribution System (Amadeus GDS). This collaboration marks an important step in enhancing travel accessibility and convenience for both travel trade partners and customers.
Effective 25th July 2024, Maldivian has joined the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) in the Indian market, alongside Amadeus GDS. Initially, certain IATA-accredited BSP travel agents in India will be able to issue e-tickets for Maldivian flights through Amadeus GDS using the Q2-986 ticket plate, with full sales access opening for all IATA-accredited BSP travel agents from 14th August 2024.
Ismail Amrah Umar, Maldivian’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer, stated, “By expanding Maldivian’s distribution capabilities with Amadeus GDS and IATA’s BSP, we are creating exciting and convenient opportunities for our valued partners and customers to connect and travel seamlessly within our growing route network. These strategic collaborations will enhance our ability to offer a wider range of travel options, and we are excited about the future opportunities it will bring for both our business and our customers.”
Maldivian currently operates 13 non-stop weekly flights to three Indian destinations from its hub at Velana International Airport (MLE) in the Maldives. The airline offers four weekly flights to Cochin (COK), five to Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), and two to Bengaluru (BLR) on Airbus A320 aircraft. Additionally, there are two weekly flights connecting Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ) in the northern Maldives to Thiruvananthapuram on a Dash8-300 aircraft.
This expansion facilitates more convenient travel for passengers between India and the Maldives, allowing travel agents to offer a single travel itinerary that ranges from luxury resorts to affordable holidays within the Maldives. Maldivian’s extensive domestic network includes 17 airports, further enhancing connectivity and travel options.
Maldivian has also established interline partnerships with major international airlines such as Emirates and Etihad Airways, with additional partnerships expected in the coming quarters.