Maldivian and Azerbaijan Airlines Announce Strategic Interline Partnership to Boost Connectivity

Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has announced a interline partnership with Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), opening new travel opportunities for passengers from Azerbaijan, Central Asia, and beyond. The agreement, unveiled this week, enables smoother connections for international travelers arriving at Velana International Airport (MLE) and onward to 17 island destinations across the Maldives through Maldivian’s extensive domestic network.

The collaboration is expected to enhance convenience for visitors seeking seamless access to the Maldives’ renowned island resorts, while also strengthening aviation and tourism ties between the Maldives and Azerbaijan. Officials from both carriers described the agreement as a vital step toward improving connectivity and expanding international reach.

“We are pleased to welcome Azerbaijan Airlines into our network through this new partnership,” said Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian. “By connecting their international services with our domestic operations, we are making it convenient for travelers from Azerbaijan and nearby regions to explore the Maldives. This agreement supports our broader strategy to strengthen inbound connectivity and deliver a smoother, more convenient travel experience for our travelers.”

Azerbaijan Airlines, based at Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, hailed the partnership as a milestone in expanding its footprint. “The partnership with Maldivian is an important step for Azerbaijan Airlines in expanding our route network and strengthening our international presence,” said Jamil Manizade, Chief Commercial Officer of AZAL. “For our passengers in Azerbaijan and neighboring regions, this collaboration opens new travel opportunities and brings one of the world’s most desirable leisure destinations — the Maldives — closer and more accessible.”

AZAL, recognized with a prestigious Skytrax 4-Star rating and multiple World Airline Awards as the Best Regional Airline in Central Asia and the CIS, operates a modern fleet in line with ICAO standards. As a member of IATA, the airline has built a reputation for exceptional service, network expansion, and sustainability. It is a signatory of the UN Global Compact and actively participates in IATA’s CO₂ Connect and IEnvA programs.