About Beond
Beond (IATA: B4, ICAO: BYD) is a Maldivian premium leisure airline and the world's first all-business-class carrier dedicated to resort destinations. The airline was founded in November 2022 by Tero Taskila, Max Nilov, and Sascha Feuerherd as a joint venture between Arabesque, a global investment firm, and SIMDI Group, one of the Maldives' largest hospitality conglomerates. Beond is headquartered in Dubai and operates from its base at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Male, the capital of the Maldives.
The airline received its Air Operator's Certificate (AOC) from the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority and commenced scheduled operations on 16 November 2023 with its inaugural Male to Munich service via a refuelling stop in Dubai. Beond positions itself as a premium leisure airline, offering an exclusive flying experience that blends the comfort of a private jet with the accessibility of scheduled service. Every seat on a Beond aircraft is a fully lie-flat business class seat designed by Italian aviation specialists Optimares, the same company behind the Four Seasons Private Jet seating.
For Malaysian travellers seeking a luxurious gateway to the Maldives, Beond offers a compelling alternative to traditional carriers. With its focus on personalised service, gourmet dining served on William Edwards fine bone china, and exceptional in-flight amenities, Beond has quickly established itself as a standout choice for discerning travellers heading to one of the world's most coveted holiday destinations. Booking through Traveloka lets you view fares in RM and pay with your preferred Malaysian payment method.
Airline Overview and History
Beond has rapidly established itself as a pioneering force in premium leisure aviation since its founding in late 2022. Below is a timeline of the airline's key milestones:
- November 2022: Beond is officially founded as a joint venture between Arabesque and SIMDI Group, with the vision of creating the world's first all-business-class leisure airline.
- August 2023: The airline's first aircraft, an Airbus A319 with registration 8Q-FBA, is delivered and configured with 44 lie-flat seats in a 2-2 layout.
- 16 November 2023: Beond launches its inaugural scheduled service, connecting Male with Munich via a refuelling stop in Dubai.
- Early 2024: The route network expands to include Zurich and Milan Malpensa, both served via Dubai.
- March 2024: A second aircraft, an Airbus A321 with registration 8Q-FBB, is delivered to the airline.
- September 2024: The A321 enters commercial service with 68 lie-flat seats in a 2-2 configuration, significantly boosting passenger capacity.
- 2024–2025: Beond adds Riyadh to its route network and announces ambitious expansion plans for 18 new destinations across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent.
- 2026: The airline announces plans to launch London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle routes from December 2026, with increased frequencies on Zurich (five weekly) and Munich (four weekly) services.
Beond's hub at Velana International Airport provides a strategic gateway to the Maldives' 1,190 coral islands, home to some of the world's most exclusive resorts. The airline's leadership team brings decades of aviation experience: CEO and Chairman Tero Taskila previously held senior roles at Finnair, Qatar Airways, and Lufthansa, while Chief Strategy Officer Max Nilov has a background in strategic consulting for Boeing and other major aviation firms.
The airline's mission is to redefine premium leisure travel by delivering a private-jet-style experience at competitive price points. By focusing exclusively on resort and leisure destinations, Beond has carved out a unique niche in the competitive aviation landscape.
Fleet and Aircraft
Beond operates a compact but carefully configured fleet of Airbus narrow-body aircraft, each outfitted exclusively for all-business-class service. The fleet currently comprises:
- Airbus A319 (8Q-FBA): Configured with 44 fully lie-flat seats in a 2-2 layout. The seats were designed by Optimares, the Italian firm that also created the seating for the Four Seasons Private Jet. This aircraft joined the fleet in August 2023 and was the workhorse of Beond's inaugural operations.
- Airbus A321 (8Q-FBB): A larger aircraft configured with 68 fully lie-flat seats, also in a 2-2 layout. Delivered in March 2024 and entering commercial service in September 2024, the A321 significantly increased passenger capacity while maintaining the same premium cabin experience.
Both aircraft feature all-aisle-access seating in a spacious 2-2 configuration, ensuring every passenger enjoys direct aisle access. The lie-flat seats recline to a full 180 degrees, transforming into comfortable beds for long-haul sectors between the Maldives and Europe. Each seat includes USB and AC power outlets, personal stowage, and generous legroom.
Beond has announced plans to expand its fleet further as it grows its route network. The airline is exploring additional Airbus narrow-body and wide-body options to support planned routes to destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent, with a target of significantly scaling operations by the end of the decade.
Top Flight Routes
Beond specialises in connecting the Maldives with major cities in Europe and the Middle East. All routes originate from or terminate at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Male. Here are the airline's key routes:
- Male to Munich (MLE–MUC): Beond's inaugural route, launched on 16 November 2023. Flights operate via a refuelling stop in Dubai, connecting the Maldives with Bavaria's capital. Frequencies are set to increase to four weekly services in late 2026.
- Male to Zurich (MLE–ZRH): A key European route also operating via Dubai. Zurich serves as a gateway for travellers from Switzerland, Austria, and southern Germany. Frequencies are set to increase to five weekly flights in late 2026.
- Male to Milan Malpensa (MLE–MXP): Connecting the Maldives with northern Italy via Dubai, this route caters to the strong Italian leisure market for Maldivian holidays.
- Male to Dubai (MLE–DXB): A shorter sector linking the Maldives with the UAE, popular with both Gulf-based travellers and those transiting to European destinations.
- Male to Riyadh (MLE–RUH): Serving the growing Saudi Arabian market for Maldivian resort holidays, launched in 2024.
For Malaysian travellers, connecting to these Beond routes is straightforward. You can fly from Kuala Lumpur to the Maldives via various carriers, or connect through Dubai to join a Beond service. Here are some useful route pages on Traveloka to help plan your journey:
Beond has announced plans to expand to 18 additional destinations by 2026–2027, including Bangkok, Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, Mumbai, Delhi, London Heathrow, Paris, Vienna, Rome, and several Middle Eastern cities. This expansion will create even more convenient connection options for Malaysian travellers.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Beond offers generous baggage allowances across all three of its fare types: Delight, Bliss, and Opulence. As a premium all-business-class airline, the baggage allowances are significantly more generous than economy class standards.
Checked Baggage
- Delight fare: Up to 4 bags with a combined weight of 40 kg
- Bliss fare: Up to 4 bags with a combined weight of 40 kg
- Opulence fare: Up to 4 bags with a combined weight of 60 kg
- Maximum per bag: Each individual bag must not exceed 32 kg
- Maximum dimensions: Total dimensions (length + width + height) must be under 158 cm per bag
Cabin Baggage
- Delight and Bliss fares: Up to 10 kg of cabin baggage
- Opulence fare: Up to 15 kg of cabin baggage
- Maximum dimensions per item: 56 x 40 x 25 cm
Prohibited Items
As with all international airlines, Beond prohibits certain items in both checked and cabin baggage, including flammable materials, explosives, sharp objects in the cabin, and lithium batteries exceeding regulatory limits. Lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in cabin baggage only. Passengers should review the airline's prohibited items list before packing to avoid issues at airport security.
For any excess baggage beyond the included allowance, passengers are advised to contact Beond's customer service directly or manage their booking through the airline's website. Rates for excess baggage vary depending on the route and fare type.
Check-in Guide
Beond provides the following check-in options for passengers:
Airport Counter Check-in
- Counter opening time: Beond's check-in counters open 3 hours before departure at all airports served
- Recommended arrival: Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 2 to 3 hours before departure for international flights
- Counter closing time: Check-in counters close approximately 60 minutes before departure
- Premium experience: As an all-business-class airline, Beond provides a dedicated check-in area at each airport, offering a swift and personalised check-in process
Online Check-in
Beond is in the process of enhancing its online check-in system for a more streamlined experience. Until the new system is fully operational, passengers are kindly requested to check in at the Beond counter at the airport. Once fully available, online check-in is expected to open 24 to 48 hours before departure, allowing passengers to select their seats and download boarding passes from home.
Travel Documents
All passengers must present a valid passport with at least six months' validity remaining from the date of travel. Malaysian passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to the Maldives for stays of up to 30 days. If your Beond flight includes a transit stop in Dubai, Malaysian passport holders also receive visa-free transit in the UAE. Always check the latest entry requirements for your destination and any transit countries before travelling.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Beond operates an all-business-class cabin, meaning every passenger on board enjoys the same premium experience. There are no economy or premium economy sections on any Beond aircraft.
Seating
Every seat on Beond is a fully lie-flat business class seat that reclines to 180 degrees, designed by Italian aviation seating specialists Optimares. The 2-2 configuration ensures all passengers have direct aisle access. The seats feature fine Italian leather upholstery and are arranged to provide ample personal space, privacy, and comfort for both short and long-haul sectors.
In-Flight Dining
Beond offers a multi-course gourmet dining experience served on William Edwards fine bone china with Robert Welch silverware. The menu features globally and regionally inspired dishes prepared by renowned chefs using fresh, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients. Premium wines, champagne, and a curated selection of beverages accompany every meal. Meal options cater to various dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free options. Passengers may pre-order meals tailored to their preferences.
In-Flight Entertainment
Each passenger receives a personal Apple iPad loaded with a curated selection of entertainment content, including films, television programmes, music, and games. Wireless noise-cancelling headphones are also provided to enhance the viewing and listening experience.
Amenities and Fare Inclusions
- Amenity kits: Premium eco-friendly toiletry kits, plush blankets, and oversized pillows are provided to all passengers
- Power outlets: Every seat includes USB and AC power outlet access for charging devices
- Limousine transfers: Bliss and Opulence fare passengers receive complimentary chauffeur-driven limousine service to and from the airport
- Lounge access: Bliss and Opulence fare holders enjoy complimentary airport lounge access at departure airports
- Fast track: Priority security and immigration fast-track services are available depending on the fare type and airport
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Beond accommodates a range of passenger needs to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for everyone on board.
Children and Infants
- Children (aged 2 and older): Children are welcome on all Beond flights and must be accompanied by an adult. Each child occupies their own seat and enjoys the same lie-flat business class experience as adult passengers.
- Infants (under 2 years): Infants may travel on an adult's lap with an infant ticket. A valid birth certificate or passport is required as proof of age. Bassinet availability may be limited due to the lie-flat seat configuration; contact Beond at booking to confirm arrangements.
Pregnant Passengers
Passengers who are pregnant are generally permitted to fly on Beond. For pregnancies in the early to mid stages, no special documentation is typically required. For pregnancies in the later stages, a medical fitness-to-fly certificate issued by a qualified healthcare provider may be required. Passengers are strongly advised to consult with their healthcare provider before travelling during pregnancy and to contact Beond directly for the most current policy, as individual circumstances and gestational week cutoffs may vary.
Special Assistance
- Wheelchair assistance: Available at all airports served by Beond. Passengers requiring wheelchair support should request this at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before departure.
- Priority boarding: Passengers with reduced mobility receive dedicated crew assistance during boarding and disembarkation.
- Medical equipment: Passengers needing to carry medical equipment on board should contact Beond in advance to arrange appropriate accommodations.
- Service animals: Policies regarding service animals vary by route and destination. Passengers should contact the airline directly for guidance.
Unaccompanied Minors
As Beond operates exclusively on international long-haul routes, unaccompanied minor services may be limited. Parents and guardians should contact the airline directly to discuss arrangements for minors travelling without an accompanying adult.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Beond offers flexibility for passengers who need to change or cancel their bookings, with terms varying by fare type.
Rescheduling
Passengers who need to reschedule their Beond flights can do so through the following steps:
- Log in to the Traveloka app or website and navigate to your booking under My Bookings
- Select the reschedule option and choose a new date or flight
- Pay any applicable fare difference if the new flight is priced higher
- Receive a confirmation email with your updated itinerary
Rescheduling policies and fees vary depending on your fare type. Opulence fares typically offer the most flexibility, while Delight fares may incur change fees.
Cancellation and Refunds
Beond has introduced a distinctive Free Flight Guarantee programme. Under this policy:
- Airline-initiated cancellations: If Beond cancels your flight, you are entitled to rebooking on another airline in business class at no additional cost. If no business class rebooking is available, you will be rebooked in economy class and receive a full refund for the cancelled flight segment.
- Passenger-initiated cancellations: Refund eligibility depends on your fare type. Opulence fares generally offer the most generous cancellation and refund terms. Bliss fares offer moderate flexibility. Delight fares may be non-refundable or eligible for travel credit only.
Refund processing times typically range from 14 to 30 business days depending on the payment method used. For bookings made through Traveloka, you can manage cancellation requests directly through the Traveloka app or contact Traveloka's 24/7 customer support for assistance.
Why Book Beond Flights on Traveloka
Traveloka makes it easy and rewarding to book your Beond flights to the Maldives. Here are the top reasons to book through Traveloka:
- Fares displayed in RM: View Beond all-business-class fares in Malaysian Ringgit, making it easy to compare prices and budget your luxury trip without currency conversion hassle
- Competitive fare comparison: Traveloka aggregates prices from multiple sources, helping you find the best available fares and compare Beond with other premium options on the same route
- Flexible payment options: Pay for your Beond tickets using a wide range of Malaysian payment methods, including credit and debit cards, online banking, and popular e-wallets such as Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, and ShopeePay
- Instalment plans: Spread the cost of your premium Beond ticket over monthly instalments using Traveloka PayLater or selected bank credit cards
- Instant e-ticket: Receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket instantly via the Traveloka app and email
- 24/7 customer support: Traveloka's multilingual customer service team is available around the clock to assist with bookings, changes, and cancellations
- Traveloka Points: Earn Traveloka Points on every booking, which can be redeemed for discounts on future flights, hotels, and activities
- Bundle and save: Combine your Beond flight with hotel accommodation in the Maldives using Traveloka's flight + hotel bundling feature for additional savings
- Exclusive promos: Access Traveloka-exclusive promotional fares and discount codes for Beond and other airlines throughout the year
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
While Beond is a premium all-business-class airline, there are still ways to secure the best possible fares for your Maldives holiday. Here are some tips for finding great deals on Traveloka:
- Book early: Premium airline fares tend to increase as the departure date approaches. Booking your Beond flight at least 2 to 3 months in advance can help you lock in lower fares, especially during peak Maldives season from November to April.
- Use Price Alerts: Set up price alerts on Traveloka for your preferred Beond route. You will receive notifications when fares drop, allowing you to book at the optimal time.
- Travel during shoulder seasons: The Maldives shoulder seasons in May, early June, October, and early November often see lower airfares while still providing pleasant weather. The wet season (May to October) generally offers the lowest fares.
- Compare fare types: Beond offers three fare types — Delight, Bliss, and Opulence — each with different inclusions. If you do not need limousine transfers or lounge access, the Delight fare offers the most affordable entry point to the all-business-class experience.
- Check for promo codes: Traveloka regularly releases promotional codes and flash sale events. Check the Traveloka app and website frequently for limited-time offers.
- Be flexible with dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use Traveloka's calendar view to compare fares across different days. Midweek departures (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) often offer lower fares than weekend flights.
- Bundle flight and hotel: Booking your Beond flight together with a Maldives resort on Traveloka can unlock bundle discounts that are not available when booking each component separately.
- Use e-wallet promotions: Payment via Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, or ShopeePay sometimes comes with cashback offers or additional discounts when paying through Traveloka.
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Booking your Beond flight on Traveloka is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to secure your premium Maldives getaway:
- Open the Traveloka app or visit Traveloka Flights on your browser.
- Enter your departure city (for example, Kuala Lumpur), your destination (Male, Maldives), your travel dates, and the number of passengers. Tap or click the search button to view available flights.
- Browse the search results and look for Beond (B4) flights. You can use the airline filter to display only Beond results. Compare the Delight, Bliss, and Opulence fare options to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
- Review your selected flight, fare type, and any add-ons such as travel insurance or airport transfers.
- Enter passenger details for each traveller, including full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, nationality, and passport number for international flights.
- Choose your payment method from credit or debit cards, online banking, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or Traveloka PayLater instalments.
- Review the total amount in RM and confirm your payment. Your e-ticket and booking confirmation will be sent to your registered email and will also appear in the Traveloka app under My Bookings.
- Before your trip, monitor your Beond flight status on Traveloka's Flight Status page to stay updated on any schedule changes.
On the day of travel, arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure and proceed to the Beond check-in counter for a premium, queue-free experience. Drop off your checked baggage, collect your boarding pass, and head through security to your gate. Once on board, settle into your lie-flat seat, enjoy gourmet dining served on fine bone china, and arrive in the Maldives refreshed and ready for your island paradise. Beond transforms the journey into a seamless extension of your luxury holiday.