The national airline, Maldivian, has introduced special fares aimed at promoting local tourism.
In a statement, Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL), which operates the national carrier, said it has decided to change its pricing structure for tourists to expand local tourism. IASL has reduced the average fare by 15 percent for tourists who visit the islands as free independent travellers, without the assistance of tour operators or travel agencies.
IASL said the move is in alignment with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledges, and is expected to increase the number of tourists seeking island holiday experiences.
Maldivian currently operates the largest network of domestic flights in the country, serving 17 destinations nationwide.
The government gives special priority to the development of local tourism, with plans to share revenue from local tourism with island councils. Discussions are underway to allocate 10 percent of tax collected from local tourism directly to island councils to support island development.