News
Manta Air Launches Maiden International Flights Linking Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives and Bengaluru, India
Manta Air has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its inaugural international flights. The airline commenced its first international route between Dhaalu Airport in the Maldives and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, India. The maiden international flight took place on Friday, February 16, marking a historic moment for both Manta Air and the Maldives aviation industry.
Prior to this initiative, travelers from India to the picturesque Dhaalu Atoll region typically accessed the Maldives through Velana International Airport (VIA). However, with the introduction of direct flights from Bengaluru to Dhaalu Airport, tourists can now enjoy expedited travel to the renowned resorts in the area, saving both time and additional transfer costs.
This strategic initiative signifies a major milestone for the homegrown Maldives’ airline and recognizes India as a pivotal source market for the Maldives. The airline, known for its innovative services and commitment to passenger satisfaction, aims to enhance the overall travel experience by streamlining international travel processes and eliminating the need for intermediary flights within the Maldives.

Manta Air’s decision to establish direct flights to Dhaalu Airport also underscores the growing importance of the Indian market for the Maldives tourism sector. India currently ranks as the fifth largest tourist market to the Maldives, with Bangalore emerging as a popular destination for Maldivians seeking medical treatment, higher education, and leisure activities.
The launch of international flights to Dhaalu Airport not only benefits tourists but also facilitates seamless travel for Maldivians traveling abroad. The direct connectivity between Bengaluru and Dhaalu Airport opens up new opportunities for both leisure and business travelers, fostering greater cultural exchange and economic cooperation between the two countries.
In collaboration with premium partner resorts in the Dhaalu Atoll region, Manta Air plans to curate exclusive packages that offer end-to-end convenience for international travelers from India. These packages will not only provide significant savings on flight time and costs but also enhance the accessibility of the Maldives’ pristine island resorts.
While traditional routes through Velana International Airport remain popular, the introduction of direct flights to Dhaalu Airport signifies a significant expansion of air travel infrastructure in the Maldives. With Manta Air leading the way in innovative aviation services, the future looks promising for enhanced connectivity and tourism growth in the region.
Manta Air’s launch of international flights between the Maldives and India represents a landmark achievement that promises to redefine travel experiences for tourists and residents alike. As the airline continues to innovate and expand its network, the Maldives solidifies its position as a premier destination for international travelers seeking luxury, adventure, and unparalleled natural beauty.
Drink
Sirru Fen Fushi hosts Flor de Caña mixology event with Dinesh Mondkar
The Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series recently hosted a mixology event at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort, featuring Dinesh Mondkar, Flor de Caña’s brand ambassador for India.
The event gave guests an opportunity to explore a selection of rum cocktails while learning more about the craftsmanship and heritage behind the Flor de Caña brand. Set against a sunset backdrop over the ocean, the session combined cocktail-making techniques, brand storytelling and a relaxed island setting.
Guests were introduced to a range of cocktails that highlighted bold flavours and the versatility of rum in contemporary mixology. The evening also offered insight into the methods and presentation behind premium cocktail service, adding an interactive element to the experience.
The event formed part of the resort’s ongoing Behind The Bar Sirru Icon series, which continues to bring recognised figures from the international spirits industry to the Maldives. Through the series, the resort aims to expand its food and beverage offering with curated events that connect guests with global brands and industry expertise.
Such experiences are designed to complement the wider guest programme by combining destination dining and beverage concepts with the setting of the Maldives, while offering visitors a more immersive way to engage with the resort’s hospitality offerings.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru marks reopening of upgraded futsal ground
Angsana Velavaru has reopened its futsal facility as part of efforts to enhance guest experiences and staff engagement through sport and community activities.
The reopening ceremony was officiated by Dhaalu Atoll Council president Ahmed Shafiu and the resort’s general manager, Ahmed Zahir, who jointly cut the ribbon to mark the occasion.
Located within the island grounds, the futsal court measures 57 metres by 38 metres and is intended to serve as a space for both recreational use and organised activities for guests and resort associates.
The resort said the facility would form part of its wider recreational offering and would host workshops and expert-led collaborations aimed at providing guests with sports-based experiences while also supporting skill development and interaction. It added that the initiative also reflects its focus on staff wellbeing, teamwork and active living.
The opening event included friendly matches between the Angsana Velavaru men’s and women’s teams, as well as an inter-resort match between the Angsana Velavaru Orange Army and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru.
Adjacent to the futsal court is the resort’s upgraded watersports centre, which now includes updated guest facilities such as shower and changing areas.
Ahmed Zahir said the reopening of the futsal ground represented more than a recreational upgrade and reflected the resort’s commitment to creating meaningful experiences for both guests and associates. He said the facility would support active living, connection and wellbeing, while also serving as a space for learning and collaboration.
Angsana Velavaru, located in South Nilandhe Atoll, said the reopening of the futsal facility forms part of its wider efforts to expand its lifestyle and community-focused offerings.
Featured
World Art Day inspires new Graffiti Club at InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort has launched the Graffiti Club to mark World Art Day, introducing a team-led initiative focused on artistic expression, collaboration and storytelling through art.
The resort said the initiative brings together more than 18 team members from across different departments, reflecting a shared interest in creativity. As part of the project, selected back-of-house spaces have been turned into canvases, transforming staff areas into spaces for artistic work.
Inspired by the natural environment of the Maldives and the Maamunagau lagoon, the first set of artworks features marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. The resort said the designs reflect the biodiversity of the destination and its connection to the surrounding ocean. Additional artwork is also being developed as the project continues.
InterContinental Maldives said the initiative is rooted in its brand culture and service philosophy, Inspire Incredible, and is intended to support creativity, collaboration and self-expression among team members.
Renuka Gupta, cluster director of learning and development, said creativity exists in every individual, regardless of role or background. She said the initiative was created to provide team members with a space to express themselves, connect with colleagues and contribute to the environment in which they work each day.
The resort said the Graffiti Club forms part of its wider approach to workplace culture, with a focus on creativity, wellbeing and personal expression alongside the guest experience.
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