Maldivian and Luxury Escapes Announces First-Ever Direct Flights Between Australia and the Maldives

Travellers will soon be able to fly direct between Australia and the Maldives, with Maldivian set to operate direct flights between Melbourne and Malé in partnership with leading Australian travel company Luxury Escapes, marking the first-ever direct air connection between the two countries.

The launch represents a historic milestone for the national airline and the Maldives, with Maldivian undertaking its inaugural direct operation to Australia.

At present, travel between Australia and the Maldives generally involves transiting through major international hubs. The introduction of direct flights represents a significant improvement in air connectivity between the two countries, supporting more efficient travel and strengthening links with a key long-haul market. Australia has consistently been among the Maldives’ key tourism source markets, contributing to sustained demand across the sector.

Flights will operate weekly on a seasonal basis from 17 May 2026*, with arrival times into Malé scheduled to align with onward connections across the country. Passengers will benefit from Maldivian’s extensive domestic and seaplane networks, providing access to beautiful, scattered islands throughout the Maldives.

Maldivian Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas said Australia remains one of the Maldives’ most important long-haul tourism markets.

“Australian travellers are among our strongest source markets, consistently ranking within the Maldives’ top ten long-haul markets and known for longer stays that contribute to the wider tourism economy. Establishing a direct route between Australia and the Maldives which is a historic step that strengthens long-standing ties between the two countries, enhances access to the Maldives as a world-leading tourist destination, and supports the continued growth of national tourism.”

He added, “This service represents an important milestone for national tourism, supporting continued growth across the sector while reinforcing Maldivian’s role as the national airline and often the first point of contact for visitors, delivering the warmth and hospitality the Maldives is widely known for.”

Luxury Escapes Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer Adam Schwab said the service follows strong demand from Australian travellers.

“According to our booking data, the Maldives is trending for 2026. Hotel reservations are up 17%, with an average length of stay of five to six nights, so we have tailored our flight schedule to allow for six full days on the ground.”

“Luxury Escapes is already a major contributor to tourism numbers, with around 20% of Australians who travel to the Maldives doing so as part of a Luxury Escapes package.”

He added, “We are working with our numerous terrific hotel and resort partners in the Maldives to offer some seriously wow-factor accommodation and flight packages with great-value inclusions to attract even more visitors to the destination.”

Melbourne Airport Chief Executive Officer Lorie Argus said the new direct flight is a huge win for both Australian travellers and Melbourne Airport, which will be the only airport in Australia to offer a direct link to one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations.

“It’s always exciting to welcome a new airline to Melbourne, but even more so when they fly to such a sought-after destination,” she said.

“We know non-stop flights are incredibly appealing to travellers because of the time savings and convenience they offer, and we expect these Luxury Escapes services will prove very popular with Australians looking for a relaxing getaway.

“This service will benefit travellers right along the east coast and Tasmania, with our single-terminal precinct allowing for quick and easy domestic-to-international terminal transfers.”

*Subject to Australian government and regulatory approval

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