Non-stop flights to the Maldives will circumvent layovers in the Middle East and Asia
Australian travellers, rejoice. You’ve been visiting the Maldives for decades, but finally, an airline is launching direct flights from Australia to Velana International Airport. That means no more stumbling around a layover city in a state of jetlagged confusion while you wait for your connecting flight to the Maldives. The new non-stop route will take just over 11 hours, or, on the return leg to Australia, just over 10 hours. Here’s all you need to know and how to book.
Previously, Australian travellers had to transfer in Asian cities or Middle Eastern hubs in order to get to the Maldives, which typically made journey times more than 20 hours long. Given the Iran War and subsequent instability in the Middle East (which has cut tourist arrivals to the Maldives by 50%) many travellers will be pleased to hear of the new direct option. When it launches, it will be the first and only direct connection between Australia and the Maldives.
The direct flights will depart from Melbourne Airport, a move that airport authorities say will benefit travellers right along Australia’s east coast and Tasmania. With a single terminal precinct, passengers starting their journeys from outside of Melbourne should be able to have a quick and easy transfer between their domestic and international flights.
Maldivian, the Maldives’ national flag carrier, has teamed up with international travel agency Luxury Escapes to provide the new charter flights. Dubbed The Maldivian Luxury Escapes Express, the flights will only be available to customers booking a Maldives holiday package through Luxury Escapes or Travel Hub.
The direct Australia to Maldives flights are set to begin operating between Melbourne Airport and Velana International Airport on 18th May 2026, subject to government and regulatory approval. Initially operating for a provisional six-month period, the charter flights should be departing from Melbourne on Monday nights and arriving in the Maldives early on Tuesday mornings.
The arrival time is well-suited to speedboat and seaplane transfer schedules for those heading to resort islands. Additionally, Luxury Escapes customers will receive a free early check-in at their chosen resort.
However, the Melbourne to the Maldives flights cannot be booked on Maldivian’s website. Instead, travellers can book on the Luxury Escapes website here or through a registered travel agent via Travel Hub. Alternatively, you can book in person at the Luxury Escapes offices either in Melbourne Chadstone or Sydney Bondi, or by phoning Luxury Escapes travel agents on 1300 889 900.
The aircraft operating the route will be Maldivian’s Airbus A330-200. These planes have 246 seats in Economy in a 2-4-2 configuration and 18 lie-flat seats in Business Class. Those in Economy will have an option to book an entire row of four Economy seats for what Luxury Escapes is dubbing, ‘Cuddle Class’.
Maldivian’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Iyas, told TravMedia: “Australian travellers are among our strongest source markets, consistently ranking within the Maldives’ top ten long-haul markets and known for longer stays that contribute to the wider tourism economy.
“This service represents an important milestone, supporting continued growth across the sector while reinforcing Maldivian’s role as the national airline and often the first point of contact for visitors, delivering the warmth and hospitality the Maldives is widely known for.”
Depending upon demand, the six-month seasonal period may be extended to a regular seasonal or even permanent service.
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