Maldivian, the national carrier, has said that it will purchase two new ATR 42-600 aircraft, with delivery scheduled for the end of the year. The news, which was made during the recent Singapore Airshow, increases Maldivian’s reliance on the ATR brand and increases the number of ATR aircraft in their fleet to seven.
The airline had previously placed an order for two more ATRs in September 2023, and it now runs three ATR aircraft. In a social media post, ATR emphasized how the inclusion will help Maldivians focus on modern, ecologically friendly aviation travel.
Alongside this fleet increase, Maldivian is still working to acquire wide-body aircraft. The parent company of Maldivian, Island Aviation, announced in January 2024 that a six-year leasing arrangement had been reached for a 250-passenger Boeing 787-8. Additionally, Maldivian will purchase two wide-body aircraft within the next two months, according to Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen, opening up direct flights to seven additional locations.
The longer range and higher passenger capacity of wide-body aircraft would greatly improve Maldivian’s long-haul flight capabilities. There are now 25 aircraft in the airline’s fleet, which includes Twin Otter seaplanes, ATRs, Dash 8s, and Airbus A320s.
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