
On Wednesday morning, Air Italy commenced direct flights to the Maldives after a two-year break. Velana International Airport welcomed the first of Air Italy’s winter 2019/2020 flights with a water salute. Followed by a celebratory ceremony held at the airport’s Maamehi Lounge welcoming the crew of the flight. Officials of the Maldives Airport Company (MACL) received the crew and passengers with warm smiles, traditional boduberu, and flowers.
Air Italy will be operating three flights a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Flying directly from their hub in Milan, Italy the high-class airline will bring tourists from the already thriving Italian Market.

The new long-haul Airbus A330-200 planes of the airline will deliver passengers with maximum comfort and leisure throughout their journey to the Maldives. With up to 24 seats in the exclusive Business Class, cabin features lie-flat eat, WiFi services, inflight entertainment, and curated services from the on-board staff. The 228 seats in the Economy Class cabin also features the brand’s signature leisure and entertainment services.
Italy is the third most contributing market for the Maldives behind China and India, beating most of the European markets over the years. Last year a total of 105,297 Italian tourists visited the Maldives with an average stay between 05 to 11 nights, an increase of 18.5 percent compared to the previous year. With the arrival stats being promising, this addition of direct flights will give a boost to the tourist arrivals to the Maldives as the country get ready for the coming festive season.