Maldivian Celebrates Arrival of its First Wide-Body Plane Airbus A330-200

Maldives’ national airline, Maldivian, inaugurated its first wide-body operations yesterday with the arrival of Airbus A330-200.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, along with several other dignitaries, attended the event at Velana International Airport to celebrate this achievement.
The arrival of the Airbus marks a historic achievement for the company, which is celebrating 25 years of service this year. When the company launched its services in 2000, it operated a fleet consisting of two flights.

Island Aviation Services’ Managing Director Ibrahim Ilyass said the new aircraft will allow the company to expand their services to more locations globally.

“With the introduction of our very first wide-body aircraft, we are now poised to expand our international flight capacity, open new routes, and connect the Maldives to long-haul destinations. This transformative step will not only strengthen our position as a global airline but also play a pivotal role in boosting the Maldives’ tourism sector by making our islands more accessible to travellers from around the world,” Ilyas said.

The new Maldivian A330-200 aircraft will offer three cabin classes, providing seating for 264 passengers. The aircraft will feature 18 seats in Business Class, 36 in Premium Economy, and 210 in Economy Class, ensuring a comfortable journey for all travellers. This aircraft will enable the launch of direct flights to three major cities in China: Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu, enhancing the airline’s global connectivity.

During the event, an airshow featuring Maldivian Dash-8, DHC-6 Twin Otters, and ATR aircraft was held at Velana International Airport, showcasing the airline’s current fleet. The company is organising “Maldivian Haveeree Ufaa,” meaning Maldivian Evening Fun, for January 11 to celebrate the arrival of the Airbus. The event will feature interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and engaging activities designed to highlight the airline’s offerings and achievements.