Maldivian Launches First Non-Stop Melbourne–Male Service
The airline Maldivian has commenced its first non-stop service from Melbourne to Male, Maldives, operating once per week using an Airbus A330-200. Flight Q2-957 departed 17 minutes late and arrived 9 minutes behind schedule. The service is chartered by Luxury Escapes for holiday packages.
Seat and Cabin
- Layout: 2-4-2 configuration in economy class.
- Seat width: 18 inches (46 cm); pitch: 31 inches (79 cm).
- Recline: Up to 3.5 inches (8.9 cm).
- Lavatories: 5 for 246 economy passengers.
Baggage
- Checked: 23 kg; cabin: 7 kg.
- Free items: golf clubs, diving equipment (excl. tanks), surfboard, stroller, portable cot, car seat, portable highchair.
- No direct transfer from domestic connections; bags must be collected and rechecked in Melbourne.
Bags must be collected and rechecked in Melbourne — no direct transfer from domestic connections.
Loyalty Program
- Luxury Escapes Societe: free to join. Points and status credits based on fare price.
- Free eSIM with each international booking (1GB data for base members).
Entertainment & Tech
- Seat-back screens from previous operator (KLM) not in use.
- Streaming to personal devices available; limited selection.
- USB-A port per seat (1 amp).
Dining
- Dinner option: stir-fried rice with chicken in oyster sauce (recommended) or creamy casarecce pasta.
- Breakfast: toasted banana bread with blueberry compote and vanilla anglaise, fruit salad, croissant, yogurt, muesli bar, water.
- Beverages: tea, coffee, soft drinks, juices. No alcoholic beverages served.
Pricing
- From $1,379 return for economy class.
- Standalone flight reservations possible via Luxury Escapes and affiliated agencies; bundled accommodation packages offer perks like free early resort check-in.
Sustainability
- Direct flight reduces travel distance by approximately 750 km compared to typical routing via Singapore.
- Economy class constitutes 93% of passenger count, versus about 74% on Singapore Airlines long-haul A350.
The direct flight cuts travel distance by approximately 750 km compared to typical routing via Singapore.