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Reading: Luxury Escapes’ first-ever direct Melbourne-Maldives charter officially cleared for take off
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Travel Weekly > Aviation > Luxury Escapes’ first-ever direct Melbourne-Maldives charter officially cleared for take off
Aviation

Luxury Escapes’ first-ever direct Melbourne-Maldives charter officially cleared for take off

Staff Writers
Published on: 8th May 2026 at 12:02 PM
Edited by Staff Writers
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Luxury Escapes and Maldivian receive approval for first-ever direct Australia-Maldives flights.
Image: Luca Micheli via iStock
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The Maldives’ national carrier has received Australian regulatory approvals to commence operations ahead of Luxury Escapes’ first-ever direct flights between Melbourne and Malé.  

Maldivian has been given a regulatory green light ahead of its weekly scheduled direct service in exclusive partnership with Luxury Escapes.

The rigorous approval process is a requirement for all airlines operating in Australian airspace and couldn’t come at a better time, with the inaugural charter due to take off on 18 May.

Luxury Escapes co-founder and CEO Adam Schwab says the approval paves the way for the opening up of one of the most sought-after destinations to Australian travellers and the timing of the new route positioning the Maldives as a compelling alternative to traditional Euro summer.

“This will be a landmark moment for Australian travellers. The demand we have already seen has been incredibly strong, with several flights totally sold out and school holidays about to hit capacity.

“With Middle East airlines still ramping back and Asian carriers significantly increasing prices, travellers are amazingly able to get to the Maldives for less than almost any other medium haul destination,” he said.

Luxury Escapes continues to tease Sydney expansion as NSW snaps up Maldives flights

Maldivian managing director Ibrahim Iyas, said that the partnership represents a historic milestone for the airline.

“This is a significant step in expanding our international footprint. Australia is an important and untapped market for us, and we are proud to introduce a direct service, in partnership with Luxury Escapes, that strengthens connectivity between Melbourne and Malé.

“Together, we’re redefining how Australians travel to the Maldives and our entire team, including our flight crew and cabin crew, can’t wait to welcome Australians on board to experience our trademark Maldivian hospitality.”

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