Maldivian resumes Male–Dhaka-Male flights with water salute ahead of Eid

Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, resumed its Male–Dhaka–Male service today with a ceremonial water cannon salute at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), reinstating direct connectivity between the two South Asian neighbours ahead of the Eid travel rush.

The inaugural flight, operated by an Airbus A320 carrying a full passenger load, landed at HSIA at 5:20am and departed for Male at 6:20am. Arriving passengers were received by officials from the airline’s local General Sales Agent (GSA), Galaxy Aviation Services.

Initially, the airline will operate the route twice weekly, on Sundays and Thursdays, with return fares starting from $399 (approximately Tk47,880). Passengers will enjoy a 30kg baggage allowance and complimentary onboard meals. Tickets are available via Maldivian’s official website, mobile app, and call centre (1671).

The resumption follows an agreement signed on February 23 between Maldivian Managing Director Mohamed Ibrahim Yasir and Galaxy Bangladesh Group President and CEO Ahmed Yusuf Walid. The launch ceremony was attended by Maldives Ambassador to Bangladesh Shiuneen Rasheed, Maldivian Director of Ground Operations Ahmed Ibrahim, and General Manager (International Commercial) Mohamed Safah.

The timing of the service’s return coincides with the Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr travel season, facilitating travel for Bangladeshi expatriates returning home and Maldivian visitors heading abroad.

Maldivian currently operates a fleet of 26 aircraft, including an Airbus A330 wide-body, Airbus A320, ATR aircraft, Dash 8 turboprops, and Twin Otter aircraft, serving a range of domestic and international destinations.