The UK's newest airline, Global Airlines, is planning to launch flights to the Maldives, one of the world's most exclusive holiday destinations, as the aviation industry grapples with disruption linked to Middle East conflict. The start-up carrier, founded by British entrepreneur James Asquith, aims to begin services to the Indian Ocean archipelago before the end of 2026, expanding beyond its initial transatlantic flights.
Ambitious Expansion Plans
The Maldives, a luxury archipelagic country, has been among many destinations affected by rising fuel costs and flight cancellations amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the US-Israel alliance. The new service would mark a major leap for Global Airlines, which launched in 2022 with bold plans to revive the 'golden age of air travel, with a modern flair' using Airbus A380 superjumbos. Ambitious plans include 12ft-long 'suites' for first-class passengers and a 'Gamer class' equipped with Xbox and PlayStation consoles.
Operational Hurdles
The company originally aimed to start flying from London Gatwick in 2023 and operate 100 planes across Europe by 2025. However, like many start-ups, it faced delays. The airline operated two commercial flights between Glasgow and New York JFK in May 2025 but has yet to launch regular passenger services. Its only aircraft remains grounded at Tarbes Airport in France for a major maintenance check.
According to Asquith, the airline expects to return to the skies later this year, with the Maldives among several long-haul destinations being considered. He told Metro: 'Ask anyone in the UK, do you want to go to the Maldives? I think everyone would say: "I'd love to, it's my dream holiday, or I want to go there on honeymoon." And it's so underserved from the UK.' The airline is also exploring routes from regional UK airports, including Manchester and Birmingham, where demand for long-haul flights remains strong.
Challenges Ahead
Asquith, who holds a Guinness World Record for being the youngest person to visit all 196 sovereign countries at age 24, said the airline is working to acquire at least one more aircraft to support expansion. Another major challenge is securing an Air Operator's Certificate (AOC), which would allow independent flight operations. The airline's New York services were run under a wet-lease agreement with Hi Fly Malta, providing crew and maintenance support.
Despite planning a premium service on the world's largest passenger plane, Global Airlines has faced criticism from aviation experts due to reliance on the A380, which is no longer in production and flown by only a limited number of airlines. Critics argue its size and operating costs could hinder profitability, especially on long-haul routes requiring hundreds of filled seats. Marina Efthymiou, aviation expert and professor at Dublin City University, noted: 'The A380s can carry from around 500 to more than 800 people. This is a huge amount of passengers, which even big airlines have problems filling. Global could be flying with half-empty planes, and profit margins are already thin.'
Passenger Appeal
Supporters, however, highlight the A380's popularity due to its spacious cabins and onboard experience. Despite delays and ongoing questions about its future, Global Airlines insists expansion plans remain firmly on the agenda.
