About this flight
To reach the Maldives — one of the most renowned resort destinations in the Indian Ocean —
we flew business class with SriLankan Airlines from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, to Malé, the capital of the Maldives.
In this article, I’ll share a glimpse of Colombo Airport, the in-flight business class experience, and our arrival at Malé Airport.
Table of Contents
Colombo Airport
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Boarding Gate
The boarding gate at Colombo Airport.
Just Before Boarding
Moments before boarding the flight from Colombo to Malé.
Judging from the outfits of the passengers, it seemed like there was a mix of travelers heading to resort islands and local Maldivian residents returning home.
Apron View (1)
A view of the aircraft parked at Colombo Airport, taken just before our departure.
Apron View (2)
Another shot of the aircraft on the apron from a different angle.
Since Colombo is the main hub for SriLankan Airlines, it’s no surprise to see so many of their aircraft lined up here.
In-flight
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Business Class Seat (1)
The business class seat was fully lie-flat, reclining up to 180 degrees, with plenty of legroom for a comfortable journey.
Beneath the personal entertainment screen is an ottoman that doubles as a footrest. While seated, you can relax your legs, and when you recline the seat using the control panel, it slides forward to connect with the ottoman, transforming into a fully flat bed.
Business Class Seat (2)
A side view of the business class seats. These paired seats are perfect for couples or those traveling together.
Since many travelers heading to the Maldives are honeymooners or couples on vacation, this seating arrangement is ideal for sharing the experience.
Business Class Cabin
A glimpse of the business class cabin.
I especially liked the traditional attire worn by the SriLankan Airlines cabin crew — elegant South Asian saris that add a touch of cultural charm.
View After Takeoff
Just after takeoff — the twinkling night view of Colombo below.
In-flight Meal
The business class meal I enjoyed on this short flight.
- • Braised Lamb in Tomato Sauce
- • Chickpea Curry
- • Coconut Roti (a Sri Lankan flat, unleavened bread)
- • Garlic Bread
- • Sri Lankan-style Cake
- • Champagne
Relaxing After the Meal
After finishing the meal, I stretched out my legs and relaxed in comfort.
Malé Airport
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Just After Landing
We’ve just landed at Malé International Airport in the Maldives.
Apron View
A view of the airport apron right after landing at Malé Airport.
I spotted an Etihad Airways aircraft from the United Arab Emirates parked nearby.
Heading to the Terminal
Disembarking from the aircraft and heading toward the Malé Airport terminal.
Baggage Claim
The baggage claim area with the conveyor belts.
Inside the Terminal
A look inside the terminal area after passing through immigration.
Taxi Stand
Heading outside the terminal to catch a taxi.
The night air was pleasantly cool. Beyond the trees, there was nothing but darkness — and just beyond that darkness, the vast Indian Ocean surrounded us.
Terminal Exterior (1)
The exterior view of Malé International Airport in the Maldives.
Terminal Exterior (2)
Another angle of the terminal building at Malé Airport.
