China Eastern Airlines Resumes Direct Flights from Kunming to Maldives

China Eastern Airlines officially resumed direct flights from Kunming to Velana International Airport (VIA) on Wednesday evening, February 28th, 2024.

The inaugural flight was welcomed by a water salute and a delegation of dignitaries, including Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal, government officials, and Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin.

China is a critical source market for Maldivian tourism, and the resumption of direct flights by China Eastern is expected to significantly boost tourist arrivals from the country. As of February 26th, China had already surpassed 50,000 arrivals, solidifying its position as the Maldives’ leading source market for the year. The direct flights between Kunming and Malé offer greater convenience and accessibility for Chinese travelers.