Direct Flights to Maldives from Baku with Azerbaijan Airlines

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) has introduced a direct flight route between Azerbaijan and the Maldives. Azerbaijan Airlines’ inaugural flight reached Velana International Airport on 9 November 2024, marking an important milestone in travel connections between the two countries.

Upon arrival, passengers and the flight crew received a warm welcome with traditional garlands. This gesture symbolizes the strong relationship and hospitality between Azerbaijan and the Maldives. Furthermore, the reception highlighted the significance of the new route and its potential to boost tourism. Additionally, this route will strengthen tourism exchanges between the two nations.

Starting 9 November 2024, AZAL will operate regular flights between Baku and Malé twice a week, on Mondays and Saturdays. Moreover, passengers can now enjoy a more convenient and direct travel experience.

Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer of AZAL, expressed his enthusiasm about the new service:

“We are pleased to launch direct regular flights from Baku to Malé. This service opens new opportunities for tourists seeking a paradise holiday experience. The Azerbaijani market has long needed more options for winter tourism, and the Maldives is one of the most popular destinations in the world this season.”

This launch proves crucial for Azerbaijani tourists. It also provides Maldivian travelers with a more direct route to Baku. Thus, both markets will benefit from the enhanced connectivity. Moreover, Ibrahim Shiuree, Managing Director of Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation, emphasized the impact of this new route, stating:

“We are thrilled to welcome Azerbaijan Airlines, AZAL, to the Maldives. This new direct flight from Baku provides excellent connectivity for travelers from Azerbaijan to experience the unparalleled beauty of our pristine islands.”

The direct flight to Maldives also marks a significant development for Velana International Airport. Mohamed Mihad, Chief Commercial Officer of Maldives Airports Company Limited, noted the importance of this connection, saying:

“The launch of AZAL’s direct flights from Baku marks a significant milestone for Velana International Airport. This route establishes an invaluable connection between Central Asia and the Maldives, providing seamless connectivity and enhanced travel options for customers journeying from Azerbaijan to our idyllic islands.”

With the addition of this route, Azerbaijan Airlines strengthens its network. It now offers more travel options for passengers. Consequently, the direct flights to Maldives between Baku and Malé will become essential. They will serve both leisure tourists and business travelers. Additionally, the Maldives becomes an even more accessible getaway, solidifying its place as a top global destination. Therefore, this route increases convenience for travelers on both sides.

Read about the recent changes to Maldives taxes for travelers

Atmosphere Core has promoted Ashwin Handa to Chief Operating Officer for South Asia, taking a key step as the hospitality brand accelerates its growth in the region. In doing so, the company continues to strengthen its leadership team. Moreover, this milestone appointment reflects a broader leadership strategy that reinforces both the company’s expansion efforts and internal culture.

Managing Director Salil Panigrahi praised the move, highlighting how it aligns with the company’s culture of recognizing and empowering deserving individuals. “It is a proud moment that reflects our culture of recognising, trusting, and empowering deserving individuals within the organisation. Ashwin is a collaborative leader who holds our teams, values, and ambitions together,” he said. Panigrahi further emphasized Ashwin’s ability to balance both the big picture and the smallest details, noting that this skill results in seamless execution, which drives operational efficiency and strong business performance.

With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry across India, the Maldives, and Nepal, Ashwin expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. “It is an honour and privilege to be recognised and step into this role at a time of expansion and evolution for Atmosphere Core. I look forward to continuing this journey with our talented teams as we strengthen our brand presence, enter new markets, and build on our commitment to exceptional, heartfelt hospitality”.

In this expanded capacity, Ashwin will lead operations across the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. To that end, he will enhance guest experiences, improve operational performance, and ensure every interaction—whether with guests or team members—reflects the company’s signature philosophy, the “Joy of Giving.” His role will play a key part in advancing Atmosphere Core’s mission and values.

Azerbaijan Airlines Launches Direct Flights to Maldives from Baku

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