Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has signed a letter of intent with De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited to acquire two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft, positioning the carrier to become the first operator of the model in the Maldives.
The planned acquisition will support the continued expansion of Maldivian’s seaplane operations, which provide essential air connectivity between Velana International Airport, resort islands and other destinations without conventional land runways. Seaplane services are a central component of the Maldives’ tourism transport network, allowing international visitors to travel directly from the country’s main aviation gateway to resorts located across its geographically dispersed atolls.
The introduction of the Twin Otter Classic 300-G is expected to strengthen Maldivian’s ability to serve resort partners while enhancing the overall transfer experience for travellers. For many visitors, the seaplane journey represents their first opportunity to experience the Maldives’ distinctive geography, offering aerial views of islands, lagoons and coral reefs before arriving at their selected resort.
Reliable seaplane connectivity is particularly important for resorts situated in remote atolls, where direct air transfers support convenient guest arrivals and departures while reducing dependence on longer journeys involving multiple modes of transport. The proposed aircraft will enable Maldivian to respond more effectively to the operational requirements of resort partners, accommodate passenger baggage and contribute to the efficient movement of guests throughout the tourism sector.
Maldivian Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas said the new aircraft would strengthen the airline’s services to resort partners and island communities, while introducing the latest version of an aircraft that remains fundamental to the country’s aviation industry.
“We are proud that Maldivian will be the first airline in the Maldives to introduce the Twin Otter Classic 300-G,” Iyas said. “The seaplane transfer is where the Maldives holiday begins, and our operation depends on this aircraft every day.”
The DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G retains the short take-off and landing capabilities required for operations within the Maldives, where aircraft frequently use lagoons and designated water aerodromes located near resort islands. Its operational flexibility makes the Twin Otter well suited to the country’s unique geographical environment and the specialised requirements of resort transfer services.
The updated aircraft also features modern avionics, improvements to passenger comfort and enhanced maintenance capabilities. According to the airline, reductions in aircraft weight are expected to create additional capacity for passengers and baggage, supporting greater operating efficiency across its seaplane network.
Improved passenger and baggage capacity will be valuable for resort transfers, particularly during periods of high tourism demand and for travellers carrying luggage for extended stays. Greater operational efficiency could also help the airline coordinate flight schedules more effectively with international arrivals and departures, supporting smoother connections between Velana International Airport and resort destinations.
The Maldives is recognised as the world’s largest operating market for Twin Otter aircraft, reflecting the central role of seaplanes in connecting the country’s numerous islands. The aircraft type has become closely associated with Maldivian tourism due to its ability to operate safely and efficiently across short routes and water-based landing areas.
Maldivian currently operates 11 DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft as part of its 25-aircraft fleet, alongside aircraft serving its domestic and international network. The planned addition of two Classic 300-G aircraft will further diversify and modernise the national carrier’s fleet while supporting the continued development of tourism and inter-island connectivity.
The proposed acquisition also reflects the growing importance of dependable aviation infrastructure in maintaining the Maldives’ position as a leading global island destination. By investing in modern seaplane aircraft, Maldivian aims to enhance services for resort operators, improve the visitor journey and strengthen access to islands across the archipelago.
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