By China Eastern Airlines’ inaugural flight from Yunnan Province to the Maldives has been warmly received by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives). A special ceremony took place at Velana International Airport to mark the occasion, commemorating the arrival of the flight.
Upon landing, tourists were welcomed with traditional garlands, and the flight was given a water salute adding a diagonal spray of celebration to the event. Distinguished attendees included Minister Faisal, representatives from the Chinese Embassy, representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), Maldives Immigration, Maldives Customs Service, and various other government entities and tourism associations in the Maldives.
China holds a significant position in the Maldives tourism industry, and the resumption of direct flights from China to the Maldives on January 18, 2023, played a pivotal role in boosting tourist arrivals. Last year saw over 187,125 Chinese tourists visiting the Maldives, contending China as one of the top three source markets for tourism in the Maldives.
MMPRC consistently promotes the Maldives as the ultimate destination in the Chinese market through strategic marketing efforts. The commencement of direct flights from Yunnan Province to the Maldives, coupled with targeted marketing activities in the Chinese market, is expected to make a positive contribution to the Maldives tourism industry. It aims to further strengthen the Maldives as the top-of-the-mind destination for Chinese travelers, creating stronger ties between the two regions.