“Adding Airlines to Offset Middle East Disruptions,” Says Transport Ministry

The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has announced plans to introduce additional airlines to the Maldives to cushion the impact of escalating tensions in the Middle East, as flight cancellations and airspace restrictions disrupt travel flows to the country.

In a statement issued today, the Ministry said it is working to bring in additional carriers to mitigate operational disruptions caused by the worsening conflict in the region. The move follows significant congestion at Velana International Airport’s international terminal after multiple flights from the Middle East were cancelled.

The Ministry noted that it is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East, including evolving regional dynamics and restrictive measures imposed on the use of airspace. It warned that these developments could have broader implications for global civil aviation and tourism, sectors that are closely intertwined with the Maldivian economy.

Flights originating from or transiting through the Middle East form a critical component of the Maldives’ air connectivity network. The Ministry stated that while some airlines operating from the region have experienced schedule changes, flights from other regions continue to operate according to their original schedules.

To further alleviate the impact, discussions are underway with additional airlines from Southeast Asia, East Asia and India to facilitate increased services to the Maldives. The Ministry said it is coordinating closely with major airlines operating to the country, as well as with relevant national and international authorities, to manage the situation effectively.

“Our primary objective is to minimize the difficulties faced by tourists visiting the Maldives, Maldivians traveling abroad, and residents within the country,” the Ministry said in its statement.

Regional air travel has faced significant disruption following Israeli strikes on Iran, which intensified hostilities and prompted several countries to temporarily close their airspace. As a result, numerous airlines, including those operating in Saudi Arabia, have been forced to reroute or adjust flight schedules.

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal stated last night that approximately 1,400 tourists are currently stranded in the Maldives due to the flight disruptions, with authorities working to facilitate alternative arrangements.

The Transport Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety and hospitality while ensuring continuity of air connectivity. As the situation remains fluid, the addition of airlines is expected to serve as a stabilising measure to protect tourism flows and limit broader economic fallout.