Maldivian’s first cargo freighter returns with 10 tonnes of cargo from Colombo

The national airline, Maldivian's first cargo freighter returned from Colombo on Sunday carrying 10 tonnes of cargo.

Maldivian’s PR and Communications Manager Moosa Waseem told Sun the 10 tonnes of cargo included perishables and medical products.

Many international airlines have suspended operations to destinations, including Maldives, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Neighboring India and Sri Lanka, two of Maldives’ top sources of imports, are currently under lockdown to curb the virus, resulting in logistical challenges in bringing in cargo.

In face of these challenges, Maldivian made the decision to use its passenger planes to transport cargo into Maldives.

Maldivian has announced it will operate cargo freighters to the Sri Lankan capital Colombo, Indian cities Trivandrum and Chennai, Dubai, and the Thai capital Bangkok.

Cargo freighters to Trivandrum and Chennai are scheduled to leave on Wednesday, the freighter to Bangkok on Thursday, and the freighter to Dubai on Friday.