Maldives’ national airline, Maldivian, has placed an order for two additional ATR aircraft as part of its ongoing fleet renewal and expansion programme, further reinforcing the carrier’s strategy to modernise operations and strengthen air connectivity across the country. The update was shared by Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas during a special programme aired by PSM News focusing on the performance and progress of state-owned enterprises. The latest order represents another important step in Maldivian’s long-term effort to transition from its ageing Dash-8 fleet to a newer and more efficient ATR fleet, supporting the airline’s broader operational and service objectives.
Iyas stated that Maldivian began its fleet replacement initiative in 2022 with the aim of gradually phasing out the Dash-8 aircraft that have served domestic routes for many years. He explained that one of the newly ordered ATR aircraft is expected to arrive in the Maldives later this year, while the second is scheduled for delivery toward the end of next year. Once introduced into service, the two aircraft are expected to further strengthen the airline’s ability to meet growing passenger demand, improve reliability, and support a more efficient operating model for domestic aviation.
The transition is seen as a practical and forward-looking decision for the national carrier, particularly as the Dash-8 aircraft currently in operation have been serving domestic routes since 2008 and are now more than 25 years old. Iyas noted that the cost of maintaining these aircraft has increased considerably over time, especially since production of the model ended around 2009 or 2010. With spare parts, long-term maintenance requirements, and ageing systems placing greater pressure on operations, the move toward ATR aircraft provides Maldivian with a more sustainable foundation for future growth while helping the airline maintain service standards expected in a competitive aviation environment.
Maldivian has already made substantial progress in this fleet modernisation programme, having added five ATR aircraft to its fleet to date. Iyas also highlighted that the most recent ATR acquired by the airline was a brand-new aircraft, marking a significant milestone for Island Aviation. It was the first time the company had directly purchased a new aircraft rather than obtaining a previously operated one. This development reflects a stronger investment posture by the airline and signals growing confidence in the future direction of the national carrier as it continues to upgrade its capabilities.
At present, Maldivian operates a fleet of 27 aircraft comprising one Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft, one Airbus A320 narrow-body aircraft, five ATR aircraft, nine Dash-8 aircraft, and 11 Dash-6 Twin Otter aircraft. This diverse fleet allows the airline to serve a wide range of operational needs, from domestic inter-island transport to international travel, while supporting tourism, trade, medical travel, business mobility, and community access across the Maldives. The addition of more ATR aircraft is expected to enhance this operational flexibility, particularly on domestic routes where dependable connectivity remains essential for both residents and visitors.
The latest fleet expansion is also aligned with broader government plans to strengthen Maldivian’s domestic and international operations. The government has previously announced plans to acquire an additional wide-body aircraft for the national carrier, in line with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to expand the airline’s international network. Island Aviation is currently working to bring that additional wide-body aircraft into service later this year, a development that is expected to support the airline’s international ambitions and further elevate the Maldives’ profile as a globally connected island destination.
For the Maldives, improvements in aviation capacity carry significance far beyond the airline itself. A stronger and more modern national carrier supports tourism expansion, facilitates easier travel between islands, improves access to services, and contributes to national economic resilience. As Maldivian continues its fleet transformation, the airline is positioning itself to play an even more important role in connecting communities, supporting development, and delivering a more efficient travel experience for passengers. The order for two additional ATR aircraft therefore reflects not only a renewal of fleet assets, but also a continued investment in the future of Maldivian aviation and the country’s wider connectivity goals.
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