Maldives and Philippines have held discussions to establish direct flights between the two countries. The discussions were held between the Civil Aviation Authority of Maldives and Philippines Civil Aeronautics Board from April 16 to 17 in Philippines capital, Manila.
Both countries noted the number of Philippine nationals are increasing in Maldives, either for work or as visitors and noted the commencement of direct flights will boost the relations between the countries, during the discussions. Furthermore, Philippines and the Maldives negotiated a draft air services agreement, making direct flights between the two countries closer to reality. The draft agreement noted to seek interested airlines of Maldives to operate flights to Philippines. Airlines from both countries will each get a weekly entitlement of 1,200 seats, according to the draft.
The delegation of Maldives was led by Chairman of Maldives Civil Aviation Authority Ibrahim Faizal and was accompanied by officials from Civil Aviation Authority. The delegation of Philippines was led by Assistant Secretary at Department of Foreign Affairs Leo M. Herrera.
Maldives currently operates flights to 46 countries, while 31 airlines from 36 sectors operate to Maldives. More than 10,000 tourists arrived to Maldives from Philippines last year, according to the official statistics.