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Flyme to begin seaplane operations with ‘Flying Yellowfin Tuna’ floatplanes

Villa Air’s Flyme has announced plans to begin commercial seaplane operations.
In a Facebook announcement, the airline said it will offer seaplane services to resorts following the completion of a new seaplane base at the main Velana International Airport.
As part of an ongoing USD 800 million mega project to expand and upgrade the Maldives’ main gateway, construction of a new seaplane terminal kicked off in January 2018. The four-storey terminal, which will be equipped with over 80 docking platforms and other support facilities, is expected to come into operation in August.
Flyme is reportedly bringing in four Twin Otter 300 series planes to begin seaplane operations. The planes are expected to arrive in Maldives by October.
The airline has also unveiled its seaplane livery.
Dubbed the Flying Yellowfin Tuna, Flyme’s seaplane livery is inspired by the yellowfin tuna found in abundance in Maldivian waters. With a colour scheme that resembles the yellow-coloured fins and finlets of the yellowfin tuna and the picture of a yellowfin tuna painted from tail to nose in navy blue, the livery pays homage to one of the most widely caught tuna species by Maldivian fishermen and a staple of the traditional Maldivian diet.
https://www.facebook.com/www.flyme.mv/videos/2090545884388120/?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDCz4nTG7OJubch6gV9W77l7ac9xMy9lQjN9RJf6zMiJhvfPtGKM-hu8zRNNk5T5ayfO5Hyd42SAxGI0KJUyiTB1C72rSoxd0HfRKqBClsRD1-DA8BuDPapn1eb3YyRi40USvtfxi1xBdgLPKBPlI6kAgwkjPby1q9E7Un7GrNngi80BmYa8dIWdddCiHb_yAY32u–t1a1IO6RCrxcHgA2D07VDDby2s1tyY4n18cf62f_96f65gclI8hQ6tFMcOUGs_26nnDIAuVJVenqE_8JxWoAfdsHo1uUaguf3aHetV2Qe89nQ1gg-DLe6XROcSvv6XztmILp6XiWmxpBwDMhH06z_plCu8MAmQ&__tn__=-R
Flyme, part of the Villa Group of Companies owned by local business tycoon Gasim Ibrahim, had its maiden flight on October 1, 2011 between Velana International Airport and parent company Villa Air’s own domestic airport on the island of Maamigili in Alif Dhaal atoll.
With a fleet of two ATR aircraft, the airline operates daily flights between Male and Maamigili, and serves another nine domestic airports across the archipelago with weekly services. In addition to catering to locals, Flyme carries tourists to the resorts in Alif Dhaal atoll, including Villa’s own Holiday Island Resort and Sun Island Resort.
Flyme had earlier brought in a Cessna Caravan C208 aircraft for seaplane operations but it was only used for charters as well as sight-seeing and excursion trips.
Seaplane is the preferred mode of transport between the main Velana International Airport and dozens of resorts, especially those located in outer atolls.
Two airlines currently handle seaplane operations: flagship carrier Maldivian and privately run Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA). A third operator, Manta Air is set to begin service this year.
TMA, which is controlled by a consortium led by US-based Bain Capital and Chinese conglomerate Tempus Group, operates an all-amphibian fleet of more than 50 aircraft, making it the largest seaplane operator in the world. Maldivian has a fleet of 13 seaplanes and serves over 10 resorts.
The seaplane operators are investing heavily in expanding their operations, especially their fleet. The expansion comes in line with growing tourist arrivals and increasing bed capacity due to the opening of dozens of new resorts in the Maldives.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives celebrates International Women’s Day

Kuramathi Maldives embraced the spirit of International Women’s Day, aligning with this year’s theme, ‘For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.’ The occasion served as a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable women in society, celebrating their achievements, resilience, and contributions.
The day commenced with a peaceful and empowering ladies-only complimentary yoga session at the Kuramathi Spa. From 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM, participants engaged in stretching, breathing exercises, and relaxation under the guidance of an expert yogi, all while surrounded by the island’s breathtaking natural beauty.
Bageecha Kids’ Club also took part in the celebrations, organising a day filled with creative and engaging activities. Children participated in a craft session where they created drawings and cards to honour the strong women they admire. One of the highlights of the activities was the mocktail-making session, where children enjoyed preparing drinks accompanied by pastries and fresh fruits. These activities allowed the younger guests to engage with the event’s empowering theme in a joyful and meaningful manner.
As the sun set, the festivities continued with a lively celebration at the Sand Bank. Guests gathered to embrace the theme of the day, engaging in laughter, music, and meaningful conversations while reflecting on the importance of creating opportunities and empowering future generations of women and girls.
Featuring live music, fun games, and an uplifting ambiance, International Women’s Day at Kuramathi Maldives was more than just an event—it served as a reminder of the power of community, support, and the ongoing journey toward equality. The resort extended its gratitude to all those who participated in making the day truly special, celebrating the strength and achievements of women past, present, and future.
Featured
Varu Spa’s new holistic wellness experiences at Kandolhu Maldives

Kandolhu Maldives has introduced a new menu at Varu Spa, offering a range of treatments designed to harmonise the mind, body, and soul. Inspired by the essence of ‘Varu,’ meaning energy in the local Dhivehi language, the revitalised offerings include signature experiences aimed at restoring balance and enhancing overall well-being.
One of the standout treatments is the Varu Origins treatment, a 120-minute immersive ritual that features a full-body exfoliation, a personalised massage, and a rejuvenating facial to promote skin radiance. Additionally, the Varu Tradition provides a holistic experience by combining aromatherapy, spinal pressure techniques, and reflexology to relieve stress and encourage relaxation. For those seeking a detoxifying treatment, the Varu Essential offers an invigorating therapy incorporating grapefruit, rosemary, and juniper essential oils for complete renewal.
Alongside these treatments, Varu Spa has introduced curated wellness journeys tailored to different relaxation needs. The Three-Day Reset focuses on gentle rejuvenation through a rose body scrub and specialised massages. The Five-Day Tranquil package includes the Maldivian Fusion Massage and Glow Facial for an indulgent experience. For couples, the Varu Haven package presents a shared retreat featuring sea salt soaks, full-body massages, and lymphatic drainage facials in a tranquil setting.
With these thoughtfully crafted experiences, Varu Spa at Kandolhu Maldives provides an ideal escape for guests to unwind, refresh, and reconnect with their inner energy.
Family Fun
Whimsical Easter celebration awaits at Amilla Maldives

Amilla Maldives invites guests to experience a whimsical Easter journey where magic, wonder, and creativity seamlessly blend with the island’s tranquil beauty. The festivities commence with pre-Easter celebrations beginning on April 11th, leading into the enchanting Easter celebrations that extend from April 14th to April 28th, 2025.
Easter Sunday, April 20th, 2025, will serve as the highlight of this magical fortnight, featuring an unforgettable Easter Sunday Brunch. Visitors will be treated to a feast of seasonal delights while enjoying the lively sounds of the Mystique Beats Dragon DJ and the soul-stirring performances of the Naail Quartet. The whimsical Wings of Wonder Egg Hunt, hosted by the charming Mystique Dragon MC, will add a playful element to the day, alongside the Fiesta Fairies and Strolling Magic performers. The excitement will continue with an Easter Egg Pinata and entertaining Acrobatic Bunnies.
Amilla Maldives maintains its reputation for surprising and delighting guests with an extensive lineup of events and activities. Visitors will have the opportunity to indulge in unique culinary experiences, whether by savouring freshly prepared meals at the resort’s renowned restaurants or participating in bespoke dining experiences designed to celebrate the season.
From playful adventures to serene moments, Amilla’s Easter celebrations promise magical memories for all visitors to cherish.
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