Russia’s largest private airline, S7 Airlines, has launched direct flights between Novosibirsk and the Maldives, establishing a new air connection aimed at strengthening tourist arrivals from one of the country’s largest tourism markets.
The airline commenced operations on Friday, with its inaugural flight arriving at Velana International Airport (VIA) after a journey of approximately 10 hours from the Russian city.
The aircraft was welcomed with a traditional water cannon salute upon arrival, while passengers received a special reception to mark the launch of the new service.
According to the announced schedule, S7 Airlines will operate two flights a week, on Mondays and Fridays, using Airbus A320 aircraft.
The new route provides a direct connection between the Maldives and Novosibirsk, a major city in Siberia and an important transport hub serving several regions of Russia.
The service is particularly significant for travellers from Siberia and surrounding areas, offering an alternative to journeys involving connections through Moscow or other international airports.
S7 Airlines is one of Russia’s leading carriers, operating an extensive domestic network alongside international services. Its main hub is located at Moscow’s Domodedovo Airport, with Novosibirsk serving as another major base for its operations.
The launch comes as the Maldives continues efforts to strengthen air connectivity with Russia, which remains one of its most important tourism markets.
According to official tourism statistics, 253,217 Russian tourists have visited the Maldives so far this year, making Russia the country’s second-largest source market.
Russian travellers have become an important part of the Maldivian tourism industry, particularly for resorts and other accommodation providers catering to long-haul holidaymakers.
The expansion of direct flights from Russian cities is expected to make the Maldives more accessible to travellers living outside Moscow, where international travel connections have traditionally been concentrated.
The new service also follows recent efforts by the government to attract additional airlines and increase tourist arrivals from key international markets.
Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal recently travelled to Russia for high-level discussions focused on strengthening tourism cooperation and improving air connectivity between the two countries.
Following the visit, Faisal said seven additional airlines were expected to commence operations to the Maldives during the final quarter of the year.
Expanding international flight connections remains an important priority for the Maldives, where tourism is a major contributor to economic activity and foreign exchange earnings.
The availability of direct flights plays a significant role in attracting visitors, particularly from long-haul markets where travel time and convenient connections can influence holiday decisions.
With S7 Airlines beginning its twice-weekly service, the Maldives gains an additional direct connection to the Russian market as the country continues efforts to expand its international aviation network.
