SAA introduces non-stop flights to the Maldives

Travel 9 May 2019

CAPE TOWN – South African Airways announced that it has introduced an extra 24 non-stop charter flights to the southern-most tip of the Maldives in October 2019.

Operating out of Johannesburg, the South African international carrier was the first to introduce the non-stop flight to Gan International Airport in November last year in time for the holiday season.

The airport is situated 0.65 degrees south of the Equator and is just a short boat charter from many of the Maldives exquisite beach resorts.

The non-stop flight which cuts out a stop-over in Malaysia has cut flying time from 16 hours, to just seven hours.

Tlali Tlali, Spokesperson for SAA said in a statement: “Holiday-makers can look forward to unrivalled luxury, pristine white sand beaches, and an amazing underwater world. The Maldives is undoubtedly, the obvious choice for a memorable holiday, especially over the cold South African winter.”

According to SAA, this follows an agreement of an exclusive non-stop charter between SAA and Air Tour Operators (ATO) and the Ministry of Tourism in the Maldives for the first time on 20 years.

The decision also forms part of an extensive turnaround strategy for the aircraft which is to increase utilisation of the aircraft.

“As part of the implementation of our turnaround plans, we are constantly seeking new and smart ways to manage costs, improve our revenues and bring more value to our customers. Internationally, SAA is a strong and preferred brand, which is renowned for quality service and reliability standards. These charters provide an ideal opportunity for us to optimise on aircraft utilisation."

The flight will also include non-stop charter flights offering both Economy and Business class options. The flights will be operated by SAA using an A340.

"Flights from Africa would definitely provide a boost to tourism and trade in Addu. This would also give an added incentive to increase bed capacity in the Atoll," Zameer explained.

The flights have been packaged with three resorts close to the airport and offer options of bed and breakfast, half board, and all-inclusive.

Written by: Staff Reporter.

Guzzle Media