Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has entered into a new interline partnership with Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), opening up expanded travel options for passengers from Azerbaijan, Central Asia, and beyond.
Under the agreement, travellers flying with Azerbaijan Airlines to Velana International Airport (MLE) will now be able to seamlessly connect to 17 island destinations across the Maldives through Maldivian’s domestic network, the largest in the country. The arrangement is expected to provide greater convenience and smoother travel experiences for international visitors.
The partnership reflects a shared objective between the Maldives and Azerbaijan to deepen cooperation in aviation and tourism, while also supporting Maldivian’s strategy to extend its global reach.
Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian, said the collaboration would strengthen inbound connectivity and enhance the travel experience. “By connecting their international services with our domestic operations, we are making it convenient for travellers from Azerbaijan and nearby regions to explore the Maldives,” he stated.
Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer of Azerbaijan Airlines, described the agreement as an important step in broadening AZAL’s international presence. “For our passengers in Azerbaijan and neighbouring regions, this collaboration opens new travel opportunities and brings one of the world’s most desirable leisure destinations closer and more accessible,” he said.
Maldivian currently operates a fleet of 26 aircraft serving 17 domestic airports along with international routes to countries such as India and China. Azerbaijan Airlines, meanwhile, operates out of Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku and has been recognised with a Skytrax 4-Star rating, in addition to awards for being the Best Regional Airline in Central Asia and the CIS.
