Maldivian to Commence Wide-Body Airbus Flights This Month, Says Minister

The Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has announced that Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, will begin scheduled flights with its newly acquired Airbus A330-200 wide-body aircraft on 21 January. 

The inaugural route will connect Chengdu, China, with Malé. Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme, Minister Ameen stated that preparations are underway to commence operations with the new aircraft. He explained that transitioning to service involves re-registration, training for operational crews, and completing essential administrative tasks.

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The Airbus A330-200, officially welcomed in the Maldives earlier this week, is the first wide-body aircraft introduced under an electoral pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The president had committed to expanding the fleet of Island Aviation Services Ltd., which operates Maldivian, with the addition of two wide-body aircraft.

Known for its advanced engineering and reliability, the A330-200 can accommodate 264 passengers across three cabin classes: economy, business, and premium. Its introduction marks a significant milestone for the Maldivian aviation sector, highlighted during an inauguration ceremony at Velana International Airport. President Dr Muizzu described the event as a historic development and confirmed plans to operationalise a second wide-body aircraft by October.

Maldivian is also preparing to expand its operations within China, with plans to launch flights to Beijing and Shanghai in addition to Chengdu. These new routes are projected to bring an additional 60,000 tourists to the Maldives annually, boosting the nation’s vital tourism industry.

The A330-200’s advanced design adheres to the latest safety regulations and incorporates comprehensive safety features, ensuring a secure and comfortable experience for passengers. This development is expected to significantly enhance the Maldives’ aviation and tourism sectors, aligning with national goals to strengthen connectivity and economic growth.