beOnd, the world’s first premium leisure airline, revealed a new multi-AOC strategy and an additional investment round of USD$100M to support its global expansion. The announcement was made at TOURISE in Riyadh, the inaugural world travel summit.
“In just two years, we have been accelerating inbound premium tourism into the Maldives,” said Tero Taskila, CEO and Chairman of beOnd. “On the strength of this performance, we are partnering with local stakeholders in the Middle East, the United States, and India to open new AOCs and bases of operation. This enables us to serve global luxury travellers locally, bring our award-winning service to new fast-growing luxury markets, and continue building an ecosystem designed entirely around the needs of the modern luxury traveller, where design, comfort, and service work together seamlessly.”
The new capital will be used to:
· Expand beOnd’s operations to 22 aircraft in the Maldives, 14 across the GCC countries, 10 aircraft in the U.S., and 12 aircraft in India, for a total of 56 aircraft by 2030;
· Grow beOnd’s innovative charter platform for events, sports teams, government delegations, and luxury travel agents seeking curated, around-the-world travel itineraries for their high-net-worth clients;
· Advance the airline’s digital and guest experience platforms, enhancing personalisation and efficiency;
· Strengthen sustainability initiatives, including operational efficiency and partnerships with environmentally responsible suppliers.
beOnd’s growth strategy reinforces its commitment to establishing a new category of air travel built around time, comfort and design. The investment pipeline reflects strong confidence in beOnd’s mission to redefine premium leisure travel by combining the exclusivity of private aviation with the reach and accessibility of scheduled service.
The airline has fostered increased tourism to the Maldives from the Middle East and Europe. The airline maintains an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in the Maldives, its first home. The company’s vision is a multi-jurisdictional approach, with AOCs in different regions of the world.
“Our vision is long-term, as beOnd is building a brand that stands for more than travel,” Taskila said.
“Whether we fly individuals, couples, families, or larger groups like sports teams or client appreciation trips for luxury brands, we want travel to feel effortless, personal, and unforgettable. We chose Riyadh and TOURISE for this announcement because the event brings together global decision makers who are shaping the future of tourism. It is the right platform to demonstrate our commitment to innovation and to show how premium leisure travel can drive tourism growth around the world.”
The airline currently operates scheduled services from Zurich, Munich, Milan, Riyadh, Dubai, and the Maldives, with new destinations to be announced.
Since launching in late 2023, beOnd has flown in 40 countries, carrying more than 20 000 luxury clients, and established itself as an award-winning, distinct player in global aviation. The airline is offering guests an all-business-class experience aboard its Airbus A319 and A321 aircraft.
