The landing aircraft, a new Airbus 320neo, was welcomed with a water cannon salute and, upon arrival, a celebratory event was held at the airport which saw the attendance of Vincent Coste, chief commercial officer, Gulf Air, Thoyyib Mohamed, managing director, Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation, and Hussain Jaleel, chief executive, Maldives Civil Aviation Authority along with various dignitaries, a number of local media, travel industry representatives and airport officials.

At the inaugural event in Velana International Airport, Coste said, “This is a remarkable event for us to fly, for the first time, to the Maldives. This tourist destination is widely popular amongst premium leisure travelers being honeymooners or families seeking luxurious holidays”. He also added, “With five weekly direct flights between Bahrain and Male and with great connectivity through our hub, this destination promises to be a key route within our growing network.”