Maldives and Ethiopia Formalize Air Services Agreement, Paving Way for Direct Flights

The Maldives and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia have signed a bilateral Air Services Agreement, establishing the regulatory framework for future air transport operations between the two countries.

The agreement authorises Ethiopian Airlines to operate services to the Maldives and opens the possibility for Maldivian, the national carrier, to introduce direct flights to Ethiopia at a later stage. Officials say the arrangement supports ongoing efforts to expand the Maldives’ international aviation network and improve access to new tourism and transit markets.

The agreement was signed by Mohamed Ameen, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation of the Maldives, and Yohannes Abera Belete, Director General of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority.

According to the Ministry, the agreement strengthens the Maldives’ connectivity through major aviation hubs and aligns with broader national objectives to diversify inbound markets and enhance global route access.