Maldivian Airlines starts twice weekly Colombo-Male flights

The inaugural flight of Maldivian Airlines Q2 940, carrying 157 passengers, arrived at Katunayake Airport on Thursday at 9:30 p.m. 

The carrier will deploy two A330 Airbus aircraft for the weekly service every Thursday and Saturday.

Maldives Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Captain Mohamad Ameen were among passengers in the maiden flight.

Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva visited Bandaranaike International Airport Katunayake to welcome the passengers arriving under the new service. 

Several dignitaries, including Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. Chairman Athula Galketiya and Nawaloka Air Services Ltd. Chairman Jayantha Dharmadasa were also present. Nawaloka Air Services acts as the local agent for the new service. 

Expressing views on the occasion, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva emphasised that the new service between Maldives and Sri Lanka would significantly facilitate business activities for the business communities of both countries. He also noted that the new air service would greatly benefit Maldivian citizens who visit Sri Lanka largely for medical treatment services.

Maldives Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Captain Mohamad Ameen said that the new air service would further strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly nations. “The new service will also significantly contribute to enhancing the tourism industry between the two countries,” he added.