Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has said government efforts to counter disruptions to global air travel caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict are beginning to show positive results.
Speaking at a press conference held by the Special Cabinet Committee established in response to the tensions, Minister Ameen said the Maldives had been significantly affected, as 99% of tourists arrive in the country by air. The disruptions led to widespread flight cancellations and a decline in arrivals.
He said measures taken to mitigate the impact have helped increase airline capacity, with additional services from carriers including Air India, Aeroflot and AirAsia.
Despite reduced operations across parts of the Middle East, airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways and flydubai are currently operating two daily flights through regional corridors. Qatar Airways is also scheduled to commence a daily service to the Maldives from 1 April.
According to the minister, operational performance by airlines serving the Maldives has improved compared with other countries affected by the situation. He added that passenger booking loads have shown a steady recovery, increasing from around 50% to 75%.
Minister Ameen also said Belarus’ Belavia Airlines is preparing to begin flights to the Maldives, with administrative arrangements nearing completion. Aeroflot is expected to operate three weekly flights from April.