Australian travellers have a brand-new reason to pack their bags, with the launch of the first-ever non-stop flights from Melbourne to the Maldives. The new weekly service, operated by Maldivian Airlines in partnership with Australian travel giant Luxury Escapes, takes off tonight, Monday 18 May 2026, from Melbourne Airport to Malé.
Historic direct route
For the first time, Aussies can fly directly to the tropical paradise without the need to transit through Singapore or the Middle East. The inaugural flight departs Melbourne at 11:20 pm, carrying 264 passengers on an 11-hour journey to Velana International Airport in Malé.
Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said the service eliminates 9–10 hours of travel time compared to previous routes. “Travel to South Asia is booming, with capacity out of Melbourne up 53 per cent on pre-pandemic levels, so I’m sure this service will be in demand,” she said.
$100 return flights for 100 lucky travellers
To celebrate the new connection, Luxury Escapes is offering 100 return Economy flights for just $100, inclusive of taxes — less than a return Uber or taxi from the city to the airport. Travellers can log on to luxuryescapes.com at 7:00 pm AEST tonight to secure one of these exclusive fares, which must be paired with a Luxury Escapes accommodation package. Departure dates span June to September 2026.
Luxury Escapes CEO and Co-Founder Adam Schwab called the launch a defining moment for Australian travel. “The Maldives has long been a bucket-list destination, but the time and complexity of transiting via Singapore or the Middle East was a major deterrent. With great support from Melbourne Airport and the national carrier of the Maldives, we’ve unlocked a direct route and packaged it with exceptional value across a range of resorts,” he said.
Flight details and onboard experience
The Maldivian Airlines A330-200 features a two-class cabin with Business and Economy, plus Economy Plus extra legroom seating. Passengers will enjoy a late-night supper service followed by breakfast, arriving in Malé at sunrise. Seamless onward seaplane or speedboat transfers to island resorts allow for early check-in and a full day of relaxation.
Resort packages and pricing
Luxury Escapes is offering flight and resort packages starting from $2,399 per person for five nights, including stays at top resorts such as SO/ Maldives, Coco Bodo Hithi, Finolhu, and Pullman. Standalone return Economy fares start from $1,379.
Past guests have raved about these resorts. One reviewer described Coco Bodo Hithi as “the most amazing holiday — once in a lifetime,” while another called JA Manafaru “absolutely amazing, the staff went above and beyond.”
How to book
The $100 return flight offer is available on a first-come, first-served basis from 7:00 pm AEST on 18 May until 11:59 pm AEST on 25 May 2026, or until sold out. Flights are non-refundable and must be purchased with an eligible Luxury Escapes Maldives bundle. Full terms and conditions apply.
For more information and to secure your spot, visit the Luxury Escapes website.
