International Airlines Increase Fares in Response to Maldivian Airport Tax Hike

International airlines operating in the Maldives have begun raising their fares following the government’s decision to increase airport taxes.  

Ace Aviation Service Maldives, the local agent for SriLankan Airlines, announced that the airline would implement fare increases for flights departing from both Velana International Airport and Gan International Airport, effective 1 December. Economy-class tickets for tourists departing from Gan International Airport will include an additional USD 50 tax, while business-class tickets for both locals and tourists will incur a USD 120 tax.  

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Several budget airlines flying to the Maldives via India have also increased their ticket prices.  

The government projects that the revised airport taxes will generate an additional MVR 1.6 billion in revenue. However, industry experts have expressed concerns that targeting the tourism sector through tax increases may lead to higher airfares and potentially deter visitors.