Maldivian Launches Wide-Body Operations to Shanghai
Photo: Maldivian Aero
Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has commenced wide-body operations to Shanghai, marking the city as its third destination in China.
This follows the launch of flights to Chengdu and Beijing earlier this month. The airline began long-haul operations to China with its newly acquired Airbus A330-200, a wide-body aircraft operating weekly flights to all three destinations. To coincide with the launch, Maldivian has introduced a special promotional fare. These fares are reported to be 30% to 50% lower than current rates in China and include a 40kg baggage allowance as well as in-flight meals.
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The journey begins! We are thrilled to welcome our first passengers on the inaugural flight from the Maldives to Shanghai. Thank you to all our passengers for being part of this memorable moment. ✈️#Maldivianaero #Maldives #China #Shanghai pic.twitter.com/uZxgxVL52S— MaldivianAero (@MaldivianAero) January 27, 2025
The inaugural flight to Shanghai is scheduled to return to the Maldives on Wednesday. The Airbus A330-200, with a seating capacity of 264 passengers, offers three cabin classes: economy, business, and premium.
The acquisition of the aircraft delivers on an electoral commitment by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to introduce two wide-body planes for Island Aviation Services Ltd., which operates Maldivian. The government also plans to acquire a second wide-body aircraft and launch flights to European destinations by October this year.
The commencement of direct flights to China is expected to strengthen tourism and trade ties between the Maldives and China.
