Malaysia’s Batik Air has commenced direct flights between Malaysia’s capital, Kuala Lumpur and Velana International Airport (VIA) on Friday.
The first direct flight from Batik Air was given a warm welcome at VIA upon touch down in a special ceremony which also saw a water salute.
A total of 121 passengers arrived on the flight.
Batik Air has launched direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, to the Maldives, opening new doors for tourism. The inaugural flight received a warm welcome at @VelanaAirport with a special ceremony and water salute. ✈️???? #NewFlightRoute @malindoair
— Maldives Airports Company Ltd - MACL (@MACLmedia) June 23, 2023
Press brief:https://t.co/aP4LaOAwg3 pic.twitter.com/hwcTk5bQ60
Ahead commencing direct flights, Batik Air had been traveling to the Maldives on transit to Sri Lanka. However, with the commencement of direct flights, Batik Air will be conducting daily flights between Malaysia and Maldives.
The airline will be utilizing Boeing 737s for the operations which has a capacity of 180 passengers.
Commencement of the direct operations is expected to increase tourist arrivals from Malaysia while also providing easements for locals traveling to Malaysia, a popular tourist destination among Maldivians and a country where a large number of local students study.