Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier Flynas is set to begin flights to the Maldives next month, as airline operations continue to recover following disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict.
Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen said the government has been working to bring in additional airlines after several carriers temporarily suspended services due to the situation in the region. Around 18 to 19 flights had been cancelled at the height of the disruption, though key Middle Eastern carriers including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways have since resumed operations. Services by Flydubai and Air Arabia have also restarted.
Flynas is scheduled to commence operations on 3 May, adding to the number of airlines serving the Maldives. The airline is expected to operate flights from Riyadh. In addition, Beond is planning to begin its charter programme in August.
The minister noted that the impact of the conflict has affected multiple countries, but airline activity and tourism flows to the Maldives have remained relatively strong. Some carriers, including Aeroflot and Turkish Airlines, have increased flight frequencies in recent weeks.
Current airline operations to the Maldives remain concentrated in Asia, with 16 carriers from the region. European airlines account for 13 operators, while six airlines are based in the Middle East.
The entry of new carriers and the resumption of suspended routes are expected to support connectivity as the sector adjusts to ongoing regional developments.
