Over 600 Flights Cancelled in 45 Days Due to the Conflict, Says Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen revealed that 626 flights to the Maldives have been cancelled since the conflict, dealing a significant blow to the Indian Maldives tourism dependent economy.

Speaking at a press conference held this afternoon at the President's Office, Minister Ameen briefed the President on the challenges the Middle East war has posed to the Maldives and the measures being taken to mitigate the disruption.

Despite the widespread cancellations, the Minister noted that some airlines have resumed operations following efforts by relevant authorities.

Qatar Airways and Emirates Airlines have both restarted flights to the Maldives. However, Minister Ameen cautioned that services remain far below normal levels.

Previously, each airline operated between four and five flights per day to the Maldives. Current schedules have not returned to that frequency, the Minister confirmed, without specifying exactly how many flights are now operating.

The conflict in the Gulf region has disrupted air corridors, forcing carriers to reroute or cancel flights. The Maldives, which relies heavily on tourism and international connectivity, has been particularly vulnerable to the disruptions.