The national carrier, Maldivian, has announced a 200-seat repatriation flight will be operated to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Speaking at a press briefing at National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), Manager Public Relations and Communications of Maldivian, Moosa Waseem, said the 200-seat repatriation flight is scheduled for April 8 to bring back Maldivians stranded in Malaysia following the lockdown declared in the country to control the spread of COVID-19. He noted a ticket costs USD 330, adding the tickets can only be purchased online.
Furthermore, Waseem said priority will be given to individuals based on the necessity to return to Maldives. He added the flight will not be carrying any items on its way to Malaysia.
Responding to concerns about the price of the tickets, Waseem said the price only includes the expenses of the carrier to make the trip, noting no profits will be made by the airline. He also said the price is high as the flight is not carrying any passengers on its way to Malaysia.
While Maldivian prepares to operate a repatriation flight to Malaysia, the airline has already brought back 100 Maldivians from Sri Lanka. The airline revealed over 1,000 Maldivians sought to return on the repatriation flight operated to Sri Lanka, adding more flights will be arranged under instructions from the government.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Maldivian has also brought some changes to its domestic flight schedule. As such, the airline now operates a single flight daily to Addu and Fuvahmulah. However, Maldivian has stated flights will be increased based on demand, as the individuals under quarantine and isolation are released.