Universal Aviation will commence operations at its newest location by the end of November 2018. The facility will be headquartered at Velana International airport in the Maldives and is a joint venture with travel company Inner Maldives Holidays.

“The Maldives are a popular but potentially challenging destination for our clients, so it was important for us to identify a partner like Inner Maldives that will not only reduce our customers' risk and stress on the ground, but provide them with an unforgettable experience through pro-active trip management, rather than relying solely on third-parties,” says Universal chairman Greg Evans.

Maldives managing director Abdulla Ghiyas adds: “Tourism is a major reason for much of the corporate jet aviation traffic to the Maldives. Our team members are trained to Universal Aviation's ground support standards, but are also experts in local tourism and can help arrange discounts for crews on local hotels, air transport and tours.”

Universal senior vice president Charlie Mularski concludes: “Universal Aviation Maldives will support local business aviation traffic but just as importantly will be a local advocate for the industry in the Maldives. Our team will work closely with the Maldives government to identify opportunities to drive traffic and improve infrastructure and access while also benefiting the local economy.”