Xiamen Airlines, a leading Chinese carrier, has inaugurated non stop service to Velana International Airport, marking a significant milestone in air connectivity between China and the Maldives. The airline’s direct flights, originating from Fujian Province, commenced amidst a ceremonious water salute and the gracious greeting of passengers, each presented with a rose.
Joining the ranks of established carriers servicing Velana International Airport from China, namely Beijing Capital Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, and Sichuan Airlines, Xiamen Airlines becomes the fourth operator to facilitate travel between the two nations.
Noteworthy is China’s paramount position in tourist arrivals to the Maldives, a trend that has only intensified since the onset of this year. Indeed, prior to the global disruption precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, China consistently held the mantle as the leading source of tourist arrivals to the Maldives.