Etihad Airways today announced plans to launch four additional weekly flights on the popular Abu Dhabi – Malé route, taking frequency to the idyllic Maldives to 11 services a week from June next year.

The extra flights, effective June 15, 2018, will operate year-round and provide more travel options with an early morning arrival enabling guests to maximise their stay in the Maldives.

In addition to providing greater choice and flexibility for UAE and GCC residents, overall connectivity and timing options between the Maldives and key countries on Etihad Airways’ European network will be enhanced. These include the major markets of the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Russia.

The expansion from the current daily operation will continue to see a two-class A320 aircraft on the route, offering 16 seats in Business Class and 120 in Economy.

Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways chief executive officer, said: “We are increasing frequency to 11 flights a week in order to cater to growing demand on the route, and to provide our guests with more choice of flights so that they can make the most of their stay in the Maldives.”

Since launching the route in November 2011, Etihad Airways has flown more than 550,000 passengers to and from the Maldives. Visitors from the UAE increased 35 per cent over the past 12 months, while Europe continues to be the main source market for the Maldives, one of the world’s premium honeymoon and leisure destinations. - TradeArabia News Service