Maldivian launches air links connecting 4 southern atolls
The new routes will operate between Addu City, Fuvahmulah, Gaafu Alif Atoll, and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
The national airline Maldivian on Friday launched scheduled air services connecting the four southern atolls using wheel-based Twin Otter aircraft.
The service was inaugurated at a ceremony held at Gan International Airport on Friday evening.
The new routes will operate between Addu City, Fuvahmulah, Gaafu Alif Atoll, and Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll.
Flights will be operated using 15-seat Twin Otter aircraft. While the aircraft type is commonly used for seaplane services in the Maldives, the aircraft deployed for this service are equipped with wheels to operate on runways.
The published one-way fares are as follows:
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From Gan to Fuvahmulah: MVR 500
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From Fuvahmulah to Kooddoo: MVR 650
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From Fuvahmulah to Kaadedhdhoo: MVR 650
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From Gan to Kaadedhdhoo: MVR 900
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From Gan to Kooddoo: MVR 900
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Island Aviation Services, said the operational base for the service will be Gan International Airport. He noted that previously only Velana International Airport had been designated as an operational base.
Iyas said the flights will operate daily and are expected to improve air connectivity between the southern atolls. He added that average flight times will not exceed 35 minutes, with the Gan–Fuvahmulah sector taking around 20 minutes.
He also said the introduction of direct air links between the four southern atolls is expected to support tourism activity in the region.
