Malaysia's Batik Air has launched direct flights from Kuala Lumpur to the Maldives.
The airline's inaugural flight received a warm welcome with a special ceremony at Velana International Airport, including a water salute, with 121 passengers on board.
Operating weekly three flights between Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the Maldives since last May, Batik Air utilizes Boeing 737 aircraft with a seating capacity of 180 passengers for its Maldives operations.
With its extensive network of 50 destinations, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Australia, Batik Air's entry into the Maldives market is expected to contribute to the country's growing tourism industry.
Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) said the addition of Batik Air's direct flights, alongside other airlines like Flynas from Saudi Arabia and the upcoming Virgin Atlantic flights from the US to Velana International Airport, offers travelers from various parts of the world more convenient options to explore the beauty and hospitality of the Maldives.
Batik Air has set a one-way fare from Kuala Lumpur International Airport to Velana International Airport at MYR 699 or MVR 2,500.
In addition to the direct flight between Malay and Kuala Lumpur, the airline will also operate a flight to Maldives after transiting in Colombo. The route will be operated daily by the airline.
