Maldives Pushes Forward with Two New Air Service Agreements to Boost Tourism

Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has revealed that the government is actively drafting two additional Air Service Agreements (ASAs) aimed at expanding the Maldives’ aviation network and attracting tourists from new source markets. 

Speaking in an exclusive interview with PSM News, the Minister emphasised that fully utilising the traffic rights already granted under existing ASAs remains a top priority, a goal that had previously been hampered by logistical and diplomatic challenges.

“We are working to achieve this so that we can bring tourists to the Maldives from new destinations beyond those currently connecting to the country,” Ameen said. 

He noted that negotiations for the two new agreements are underway, describing them as major undertakings that require time but are progressing satisfactorily. The Minister expressed confidence that the tangible benefits of these pacts will become evident in the near future.

Air Service Agreements, which set the rules for commercial flight operations between two or more countries, are critical for the Maldives, whose tourism sector relies heavily on international air connectivity. These agreements determine which foreign airlines may operate to the archipelago, set seat‑capacity limits, and define accessible route markets. By expanding ASA coverage, the Maldives aims to increase visitor arrivals from key markets and diversify its tourist base.

The Minister’s update follows recent successes in the country’s aviation diplomacy. The Maldives recently signed its sixth ASA with an African nation, Ethiopia, paving the way for scheduled direct flights between Addis Ababa and Male’. Additionally, an ASA with Australia has been finalised, enabling the national carrier, Maldivian, to operate direct flights to Australian cities. These developments underscore the government’s broader strategy to strengthen air links, stimulate tourism recovery, and support sustainable growth in the sector.