Maldivian has introduced a new domestic air network linking four southern atolls, with scheduled flights set to begin on 1 February.
The new routes will connect Addu City, Fuvahmulah, Gaafu Alifu Atoll and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, significantly improving air access across the southern region. The launch was marked by a ceremony at Gan International Airport, attended by Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen, Cabinet ministers and senior officials from the national airline.
Addressing the event, Managing Director of Island Aviation Services Ibrahim Iyas said Gan International Airport will serve as an additional operational base for Maldivian, alongside Velana International Airport—marking a first in the airline’s history. He also noted that Maldivian is the country’s first airline to operate scheduled commercial flights using wheeled Twin Otter aircraft.
Iyas said Addu is already a key tourism destination and that stronger air links between the southern atolls are expected to further stimulate tourism while easing long-standing travel challenges faced by residents.
Maldivian currently operates twice-weekly flights to Gan. With the introduction of the new routes, all southern atolls will now be connected by air, strengthening regional integration and supporting social development.
The new operation links four airports across the atolls. Bookings are now open, and the airline has announced the applicable fares. Flights will be operated across five sectors, including services from Addu City to Kaadedhdhoo and Kooddoo airports, as well as routes connecting Fuvahmulah with both destinations.
The services will be operated using Twin Otter aircraft, the smallest in Maldivian’s fleet, with a seating capacity of 15 passengers.
The initiative aligns with the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation’s efforts to strengthen regional air connectivity, particularly in the southern atolls. As a result, Addu is expected to emerge as the primary air transport hub in the south.
Authorities said the new flights will improve access for island communities, supporting travel for education, medical care and other essential needs, while also allowing passengers to transit through Addu for medical treatment.
The expanded air network is also expected to benefit the tourism industry, enabling visitors to travel between multiple southern islands through a single hub, supporting resorts, guesthouses and other tourism-related businesses.
Maldivian has recently begun operating smaller aircraft in the southern region. The President has previously noted that these aircraft are capable of safe night operations on short runways, allowing air travel to islands where seaplane services are not available after dark.
