China’s Xiamen Airlines launches direct flights to Maldives

China’s Xiamen Airlines launched direct flights to the Maldives on Wednesday.

As per the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), the airline is conducting direct flights between Fujian Province, China to Velana International Airport (VIA)

The airline’s light MF8017 carrying tourists received a grand welcome at VIA comprising of a Boduberu performance. They were also presented with a special gift pack and flowers.

The ceremony was attended by dignitaries including the Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin and officials from Tourism Ministry, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), Maldives Immigration, Maldives Customs Service and other government authorities and tourism associations in the Maldives.

China has reclaimed its position as the leading tourist market to the Maldives following the resumption of flights in January last year after the halt prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

As per statistics publicized by the Tourism Ministry on Wednesday, Maldives has recorded the arrival of 40,892 Chinese tourists – accounting for 13.9 percent of the total arrivals which stands at 294,923.