Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of its first wide-body aircraft service. The inaugural event took place on Monday at Velana International Airport (VIA) with the arrival of an Airbus A330, marking a historic step for the airline.
The launch ceremony began with a captivating air show featuring other Maldivian flights before the Airbus A330 made its landing. Upon its arrival, the aircraft and its crew received a warm welcome from President Mohamed Muizzu and Ibrahim Ghiyas, the Managing Director of Island Aviation Services, which operates Maldivian. Following the formal welcome, President Muizzu had the opportunity to tour the newly acquired aircraft.
During the event, Ibrahim Ghiyas highlighted the significance of the wide-body aircraft in Maldivian’s journey toward international expansion. He noted that the A330 would enable the airline to strengthen its international presence, with direct flights to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu set to commence later this month. This expansion aligns with the airline’s strategy to cater to growing tourism demand and foster stronger connections with key international markets.
The Airbus A330 boasts a seating capacity of 264, offering first-class, business-class, and economy-class options for passengers. In addition to passenger services, the aircraft has the capability to carry up to 10 tons of air cargo, presenting new opportunities for businesses seeking efficient transportation solutions.
Maldivian is also preparing to introduce a second wide-body aircraft, which is expected to significantly enhance the country’s tourism sector. The airline projects that the expanded fleet will help bring over 65,000 tourists to the Maldives annually, further solidifying its role as a key driver of economic growth.
The decision to introduce wide-body aircraft was made by the Maldivian cabinet in December 2023 as part of a pledge by the President to bolster the nation’s aviation capabilities. The agreement to acquire the aircraft was signed in July 2024, culminating in the delivery of the A330 this year.
Ghiyas underscored the pride in having Maldivian employees as part of the crew operating the new aircraft, reflecting the airline’s commitment to fostering local talent. This development marks an exciting new chapter for Maldivian, positioning it as a competitive player in international aviation while supporting the Maldives' status as a premier tourist destination.