Currently, the privately-owned airline operates flights in the Maldives to several domestic destinations. These destinations include Dharavandhoo in Baa Atoll, Villa Airport Maamigili in Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, and the main Velana International Airport in Capital Male’ Atoll. Flyme commenced its operations back in October 2011 with one ATR 42-500. The company initially operated between Maamigili and Male’ Airport.
Flyme received Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) to commence international operations late Thursday. With its inaugural flight from Velana Interntaional Airport to Sri Lanka today. The privately-owned airline is set to operate flights between Sri Lanka and the Maldives. However, Flyme will expand its operations with multiple destinations in Asia in the future.
The longest ATR operating airline in Maldives provides a unique travel experience for travelers. Flyme is owned and operated by VillaAir – a part of the Villa Group of companies. Villa Maamigili airport features a passenger lounge that can cater up to 120 travelers. Likewise, its capacity has been increased by 200% compared to 2013.
The Villa Group also manages five resorts in the Maldives under Villa Hotels. The five resorts include; Paradise Island Resort, Sun Island Resort & Spa, Holiday Island Resort & Spa, Royal Island Resort, and Fun Island Resort. Each of these properties offers unique accommodation options and unparalleled levels of service. Each resort offers distinctive experiences for travelers from a family-friendly experience at Fun Island Resort to a romantic experience at Paradise Island Resort.
The Airline industry has been massively struck by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. According to a report by Moody’s, commercial aviation will be ravaged by the pandemic for years to come. The Maldives has started welcoming international visitors with border reopening from 15th July 2020. The latest figures from Maldives Immigration indicates a total of 7,628 tourists arrived in the Maldives in the month of August 2020. Airline operations between nations to bring more visitors to the Maldives holds importance for the country to recover from losses of COVID-19.
