Indian airline giant IndiGo has added a new daily nonstop flight between Thiruvananthapuram and Malé, enhancing connectivity between India and the Maldives at a time when travel demand to the island nation continues to surge. The introduction of this new route marks the fourth Indian city with direct air access to the Maldivian capital via IndiGo, complementing existing services from Bengaluru, Kochi, and Mumbai.
With this latest addition, IndiGo now operates 28 weekly flights from India to Malé, offering a wider range of convenient travel options for Indian tourists—a market that consistently ranks among the Maldives’ top tourist source markets. According to data from Maldives Immigration, India was the third-largest contributor to tourist arrivals in 2024, with more than 208,000 Indian tourists visiting the Maldives by the end of the year.
The flight will be operated by the ATR 72-600, a regional turboprop aircraft known for its efficiency and reliability. The service departs Thiruvananthapuram daily at around 12:00 p.m. and lands at Velana International Airport in Malé at approximately 1:15 p.m. The return leg is scheduled to take off from Malé at 2:05 p.m., providing an efficient schedule for travelers heading in either direction.
The timing of the new service is strategically aligned with the start of the Maldives’ peak tourist season, which typically spans from November to April. This season sees a notable increase in international visitors drawn by the country’s sunny weather, pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and world-renowned hospitality. The new route is expected to further strengthen outbound travel from India, while also supporting the Maldives’ efforts to boost tourist arrivals from regional hubs.
The route is also operated by Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, which has been maintaining direct flights on this corridor. With IndiGo entering this route, travelers now have additional choices in terms of flight timings and fare options.
This expansion highlights the continuing appeal of the Maldives as a leading tropical destination for Indian travelers. Its proximity to South India, visa-free entry for Indian nationals, and growing air connectivity continue to make the Maldives a preferred getaway for leisure seekers, honeymooners, and adventure enthusiasts.
As airlines respond to the rising demand with increased capacity and improved accessibility, the Maldives continues to solidify its position as a premier international travel destination in the South Asia region. With more direct connections, seamless travel experiences, and world-class tourism infrastructure, the island nation remains a top choice for travelers seeking beauty, relaxation, and luxury just a short flight away.
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