Maldivian’s first seaplane has landed in Baa Kamadhoo, starting a new chapter in the island’s connectivity. The arrival was celebrated by the local community, who welcomed two tourists travelling on the inaugural service.

Regular operations on the route will begin on 11 September 2025, with flights running twice weekly on Thursdays and Saturdays. Maldivian has also introduced a special one-way fare of MVR 1,199 for locals to make the service more affordable.

The launch was made possible through a partnership between Island Aviation Services and Hawks Hotels Pvt Ltd, formalised during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to the island last month. During his meeting with residents, the President pledged to end Kamadhoo’s long-standing neglect within the atoll’s development agenda, describing the new seaplane link as a key step towards ensuring fair and balanced growth.

Officials expect the new connection to significantly boost tourism and local business activity. Kamadhoo is now considered one of the key tourism hubs in Baa Atoll, second to Dharavandhoo in bed capacity. The atoll itself is internationally known for Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and world-renowned site for seasonal gatherings of manta rays and whale sharks.