Malaysia Airlines is set to increase its services to the Maldives from seven to eleven weekly flights starting 26 October 2025, in response to growing travel demand during the winter season – traditionally the busiest period for Maldivian tourism.

The flights will continue to be operated using Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The expansion follows the airline’s resumption of direct flights to Malé in August 2024, and comes amid improving regional connectivity and strong inbound tourism from Asia. While Singapore Airlines and SriLankan Airlines also serve this route, only AirAsia, Batik Air Malaysia, and Malaysia Airlines offer direct flights, with Malaysia Airlines being the only full-service carrier among them.

The increase in flight frequency coincides with the opening of the new terminal at Velana International Airport on 26 July 2025. The terminal, which is currently in a transitional phase, has expanded annual passenger handling capacity from 1.5 million to 7 million and has eliminated peak-hour flight constraints, creating space for more carriers and flight frequencies.

Malaysia plays a dual role in this route: not only is it a popular travel and education destination for Maldivians, but it also serves as a key transit hub for tourists from Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Australia, particularly from China. With over 180,000 Chinese tourist arrivals recorded as of July 2025, China remains the Maldives’ top source market for a second consecutive year.

The move by Malaysia Airlines is expected to strengthen its position in a competitive regional market, while also supporting the Maldives’ efforts to accommodate rising tourist arrivals and airline traffic through its upgraded airport infrastructure.