Hong Kong Airlines Resumes Direct Flights to Maldives, Rekindling Tourism Prospect.

In a significant move towards tourism resurgence, Hong Kong Airlines has reinstated its scheduled direct flights from Hong Kong to Maldives on January 19, 2024. This revival follows a temporary halt due to the COVID pandemic, marking a crucial step in reconnecting the two destinations.

The resumption comes shortly after the visit of the President of Maldives to China, where discussions focused on revitalizing tourism collaborations. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu advocated for increased Chinese tourism to the Maldives, recalling the pre-COVID era when China dominated as the top tourist market for the island nation.

Initially launching charter flights in 2012, Hong Kong Airlines expanded its services with scheduled direct flights to Maldives in 2019. However, the onset of the COVID pandemic led to a suspension of these flights, affecting international travel patterns globally.

During the pandemic, the Maldivian government leaned heavily on India for support, temporarily isolating ties with China. This shift resulted in India becoming the primary market for Maldives during the challenging times of COVID.

As the Maldives renews its commitment to international collaborations and tourism revival, the resumption of direct flights by Hong Kong Airlines symbolizes a promising chapter for the Maldivian tourism sector. The government's recent call to enhance Chinese tourism reaffirms efforts to diversify and expand its tourism markets.

With memories of China leading as the top destination for Maldives pre-COVID, the island nation anticipates a gradual return to normalcy, fostering stronger ties with both China and Hong Kong Airlines in the realm of tourism.