About Maldivian
Maldivian is the national airline of the Republic of Maldives, operating under IATA code Q2 and ICAO code DQA. Headquartered in Malé, the airline is a subsidiary of Island Aviation Services Limited, a fully state-owned enterprise established on 13 April 2000. Maldivian serves as the flag carrier of the Maldives, providing scheduled domestic and international passenger services alongside a unique seaplane operation that connects the country's far-flung island resorts and atolls.
The airline plays a vital role in the Maldivian transport network, bridging the gap between the capital Malé and remote island communities that are otherwise inaccessible by conventional aircraft. With its main hub at Velana International Airport (MLE), Maldivian operates a mixed fleet of fixed-wing aircraft and seaplanes, making it one of the few carriers in the world that combines full-service airline operations with scheduled seaplane services.
Airline Overview and History
Maldivian was born out of necessity following the collapse of the previous national carrier, Air Maldives. Island Aviation Services Limited was established to ensure domestic air connectivity across the geographically dispersed island nation. Key milestones in the airline's history include:
- 13 April 2000 — Island Aviation Services Limited established as a fully government-owned company
- 2000 — Operations commenced with one de Havilland Canada Dash 8-200 and two Dornier 228 aircraft serving domestic routes
- 2004 — Ordered an additional Dash 8-200 to expand the domestic network
- 2006 — Ordered two de Havilland Canada Dash 8-300 aircraft, with deliveries in 2007 and 2008
- 2008 — Island Aviation Services rebranded its airline operations as Maldivian and officially became the flag carrier of the Maldives
- 2011 — Ordered one Airbus A320-200 to expand into international routes, delivered in 2012
- 2020 — Celebrated 20 years of operations with the tagline Bridging the Gap, reflecting its mission of connecting Maldivian communities
- January 2025 — Took delivery of its first wide-body aircraft, an Airbus A330-200, marking a historic milestone for long-haul expansion
- June 2025 — Expanded regional capacity with the arrival of a new ATR 42-600 aircraft
Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé serves as the airline's primary hub. This airport is the main international gateway to the Maldives, handling the majority of tourist arrivals. From MLE, Maldivian connects passengers to over 18 domestic destinations across the atolls and operates international services to cities in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia. The airline's mission is centred on providing safe, reliable, and accessible air transport to all corners of the Maldives, supporting both the tourism industry and the everyday travel needs of local communities.
Fleet and Aircraft
Maldivian operates a diverse fleet of approximately 26 aircraft, uniquely combining fixed-wing planes with seaplanes to serve the varied operational needs of the Maldives. The fleet includes the following aircraft types:
- Airbus A330-200 — Wide-body aircraft introduced in January 2025, deployed on longer international routes and high-demand sectors
- Airbus A320 — Narrow-body jet used for international routes and higher-capacity domestic sectors
- ATR 42-600 — Modern twin-engine turboprop acquired from 2025 onwards, used for regional and domestic routes as a replacement for older Dash 8 aircraft
- de Havilland Canada Dash 8 — Turboprop aircraft operated on domestic and short-haul regional routes across the atolls
- DHC-6 Twin Otter (Seaplane) — Iconic float-equipped aircraft providing seaplane services to resort islands and atolls that lack conventional runways, with approximately 11 aircraft in the seaplane fleet
The seaplane fleet is a defining feature of Maldivian's operations. The DHC-6 Twin Otter seaplanes land directly on lagoons adjacent to resort islands, offering a scenic and efficient transfer method that has become synonymous with travel in the Maldives. These seaplanes typically carry 15 to 19 passengers per flight and operate during daylight hours only due to the visual nature of lagoon landings.
Maldivian continues to modernise its fleet, with orders placed for additional ATR 42-600 aircraft expected to arrive by early 2026. The airline maintains its fleet to international safety standards under the oversight of the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority.
Top Flight Routes
Maldivian connects the capital Malé with islands and atolls across the Maldives, as well as international destinations in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Popular routes include:
- Malé to Gan (Addu Atoll) — The southernmost domestic route, connecting the capital to the Addu Atoll, popular with both locals and tourists visiting the southern atolls
- Malé to Dharavandhoo (Baa Atoll) — Gateway to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, home to world-renowned dive sites and luxury resorts
- Malé to Hanimaadhoo (Haa Dhaalu) — Connecting the capital to the northernmost inhabited atolls of the Maldives
- Malé to Kadhdhoo (Laamu Atoll) — Serving the central-southern atolls and surrounding island communities
- Malé to Thiruvananthapuram (India) — One of the most popular international routes, linking the Maldives with the south Indian state of Kerala
- Malé to Colombo (Sri Lanka) — Connecting to the nearest major international hub in the region
- Malé to Dhaka (Bangladesh) — Serving the large Bangladeshi expat community in the Maldives
- Malé to Bangkok (Thailand) — International expansion route launched in 2025 for leisure and transit connectivity
For Malaysian travellers, the Maldives is a premier tropical holiday destination. While Maldivian does not currently operate direct flights from Malaysia, you can reach Malé via convenient connections through Colombo, Bangkok, or other regional hubs. Explore these popular routes from Malaysia on Traveloka:
Check the latest routes and real-time availability on Traveloka for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Understanding the baggage rules before your trip will help you pack efficiently and avoid additional charges. Below is a summary of Maldivian's baggage policy for fixed-wing aircraft services.
Cabin Baggage
- Weight limit: 5 kg per passenger
- Maximum dimensions: 48 cm x 36 cm x 20 cm (L x W x H)
- Additional items: One small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera is generally permitted
For seaplane services, cabin baggage allowances may differ due to the smaller aircraft cabin size. Passengers are advised to pack light and check specific seaplane baggage limits at the time of booking.
Checked Baggage
- Free allowance: 20 kg per passenger on domestic and international routes (may vary by fare type)
- Maximum dimensions: Total linear dimensions (length + width + height) should not exceed 158 cm
- Excess baggage fees: Charged per kilogram and vary by route — for example, approximately USD 4.50/kg on the Malé to Gan route and USD 2.20/kg on the Malé to Dharavandhoo route
Passengers who anticipate exceeding the standard allowance should contact the airline or check at the ticketing office for exact excess baggage rates on their specific route. Pre-purchasing additional baggage through Traveloka at the time of booking may be more cost-effective than paying at the airport.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Maldivian follows international aviation security regulations. Key restrictions include:
- Dangerous goods, flammable liquids, explosives, and sharp objects are prohibited in both cabin and checked baggage
- Lithium batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only
- Alcohol is strictly prohibited in the Maldives and may not be carried in passenger baggage on domestic flights
- Oversized or special items such as surfboards, dive equipment, and musical instruments should be arranged with the airline in advance
Check-in Guide
Airport Counter Check-in
Airport counter check-in is available at Velana International Airport and all domestic airports served by Maldivian. Recommended arrival times:
- Domestic flights: Check-in counters open 2 hours before departure
- International flights: Check-in counters open 3 hours before departure
Passengers must collect their boarding passes and drop off checked baggage at least 1 hour before the scheduled departure time.
Online Check-in
Maldivian offers online check-in through its official website at maldivian.aero. The online check-in window varies by flight type:
- Domestic flights: Online check-in opens 12 hours before departure and closes 4 hours before departure
- International flights: Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure and closes 4 hours before departure
After completing online check-in, passengers with checked baggage must still visit the baggage drop counter at the airport at least 1 hour before departure. Passengers travelling with cabin baggage only can proceed directly to security screening.
City Check-in
Maldivian also offers a convenient city check-in service at the Greater Malé Bus Terminal in Malé. City check-in opens 4 hours before departure and closes 90 minutes before departure. This service allows passengers to check in their baggage and collect boarding passes before heading to the airport, reducing congestion and waiting times at the terminal.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Business Class
On select aircraft, Maldivian offers a Business Class cabin with enhanced amenities. Business Class passengers enjoy:
- Welcome juice upon boarding
- Complimentary snacks on arrival at the seat
- A full meal service including a starter and main course, with an additional beverage
- Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling
- Extra legroom and wider seat pitch
Economy Class
Economy Class is the standard cabin on all Maldivian flights. Economy passengers receive:
- Complimentary refreshments on board
- Standard seat configuration with adequate legroom for domestic and regional flights
- Window and aisle seat options (depending on aircraft type)
In-Flight Meals and Beverages
Maldivian provides complimentary meal and beverage service across both cabin classes. Business Class receives a full meal with starters and main courses, while Economy Class passengers are offered refreshments. Meals are prepared in accordance with halal standards. Passengers with specific dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-related needs are encouraged to inform the airline at the time of booking.
Seaplane Experience
The seaplane service on DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft offers a uniquely Maldivian flying experience. Passengers enjoy breathtaking aerial views of turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and scattered island atolls during the scenic flight. Seaplane cabins are configured in an all-economy layout with approximately 15 to 19 seats. Due to the nature of seaplane operations, flights operate during daylight hours only, and baggage allowances may be more restrictive than on fixed-wing services.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Travelling with Children and Infants
- Children (2–11 years): Must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger, require their own seat and ticket. Child fares may be available depending on the route and fare type
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an accompanying adult's lap with a reduced infant fare. Only one infant is permitted per accompanying adult
- Required documents: Valid birth certificate or passport for all child and infant passengers. For international flights, ensure all travel documents including visas are in order
Pregnant Passengers
- Passengers in early to mid stages of pregnancy may fly without restriction
- A medical fitness-to-fly certificate issued by a qualified doctor may be required for passengers beyond 28 weeks of pregnancy
- Passengers are advised to consult their healthcare provider before booking and to contact the airline directly for the most current pregnancy travel policy
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
Maldivian provides dedicated support for passengers with reduced mobility, visual or hearing impairments, medical conditions, or other special needs. Available services include:
- Wheelchair assistance from check-in through boarding and disembarkation
- Priority seating arrangements and accessible seating options
- Assistance from trained cabin crew throughout the flight
Passengers who require medical equipment on board, such as portable oxygen concentrators or mobility aids, should notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure to ensure appropriate arrangements are in place.
Unaccompanied Minors
- Children aged 5 years and above: Eligible for the unaccompanied minor service, subject to parental consent and completion of required documentation
- Parents or guardians must ensure a designated responsible adult is present at both the departure and arrival airports
- Online check-in is not available for unaccompanied minors — check-in must be completed at the airport counter
Contact Maldivian directly to arrange unaccompanied minor services and to confirm eligibility for your specific route.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Rescheduling Flights
To reschedule a Maldivian flight booked through Traveloka:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and navigate to My Booking
- Select the booking you wish to modify
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new available flight
- Pay any applicable rescheduling fees or fare differences
The ability to reschedule and any associated fees depend on your fare type. Flexible fares generally allow changes with lower fees, while promotional or discounted fares may carry stricter conditions or higher fees.
Cancellations and Refunds
Refund eligibility depends on the type of ticket purchased:
- Fully refundable fares: Cancel and receive a full refund to your original payment method
- Partially refundable fares: A cancellation fee is deducted from the refund amount
- Non-refundable promotional fares: May be converted into travel credit for future Maldivian bookings
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the payment method used at the time of booking.
Airline-Initiated Cancellations
If Maldivian cancels a flight due to operational reasons, weather, or other factors, affected passengers are generally entitled to a full refund or rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost. Contact Traveloka's 24/7 customer support for immediate assistance in such situations.
Why Book Maldivian Flights on Traveloka
Booking Maldivian flights through Traveloka offers several advantages for Malaysian travellers:
- Competitive pricing — Access exclusive deals and promotional fares on Maldivian flights and connecting itineraries to the Maldives
- Easy comparison — Compare Maldivian fares with other airlines, and sort results by price, departure time, duration, and number of stops
- Flexible payment options — Pay using credit or debit cards, bank transfers, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or interest-free instalment plans
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation immediately via email and the Traveloka app — no queuing or waiting
- 24/7 customer support — Traveloka's multilingual support team is available around the clock to assist with booking changes, cancellations, or any travel queries
- Loyalty rewards — Earn Traveloka Points on every booking, enjoy cashback promotions, and access member-exclusive flight deals
- Complete travel platform — Book flights, hotels, airport transfers, and travel insurance all in one place, making your Maldives trip planning seamless
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Use these strategies to secure the best fares on flights to the Maldives and other Maldivian destinations:
- Book early — Flight prices to popular destinations like the Maldives tend to increase as the departure date approaches, especially during peak season from November to April
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different travel dates and find the most affordable options
- Fly midweek — Tuesday and Wednesday departures often offer lower fares compared to weekend flights
- Set Price Alerts — Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature to get notified instantly when fares drop on your preferred route to the Maldives
- Check promotions regularly — Visit Traveloka's promotions page for flash sales, seasonal discounts, and exclusive promo codes on flights
- Travel off-peak — Consider travelling during the Maldives' off-peak season (May to October) for significantly lower airfares and hotel rates
- Bundle your trip — Book flights and hotels together on Traveloka to unlock additional bundle discounts
- Compare connecting routes — Flights from Malaysia to the Maldives may be cheaper via certain transit hubs such as Colombo, Bangkok, or Singapore — compare multiple options on Traveloka
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these simple steps to book your Maldivian flight or connecting flight to the Maldives on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and navigate to the Flights section
- Enter your departure city (e.g., Kuala Lumpur) and destination (e.g., Malé), select your travel dates, and specify the number of passengers
- Tap the search button to view all available flights for your route, including direct and connecting options
- Sort results by price, departure time, or flight duration and select your preferred itinerary
- Enter passenger details — full name as shown on your passport, date of birth, nationality, and contact information
- Add optional extras such as additional baggage allowance, preferred seat selection, or travel insurance
- Review your complete booking summary including the total fare, taxes, fees, and any add-ons
- Choose your preferred payment method — credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or e-wallet — and complete the transaction
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app, ready for your journey to the Maldives
Save or print your e-ticket for reference at the airport. For connecting flights, ensure you have adequate transit time and all necessary travel documents for each country in your itinerary.