National carrier Maldivian has announced the purchase of two new ATR 42-600 aircraft, with delivery anticipated by the end of the year. The announcement, made during the ongoing Singapore Airshow, further expands Maldivian’s reliance on the ATR brand, bringing their total ATR fleet to seven aircraft.
The airline currently operates three ATR aircraft and had previously placed an order for two additional ATRs in September 2023. ATR, in a social media post, highlighted the addition will support Maldivian’s focus on environmentally sustainable and contemporary air service.
This fleet expansion comes alongside Maldivian’s ongoing efforts to secure wide-body aircraft. In January 2024, Island Aviation, the parent company of Maldivian, announced a six-year lease agreement for a Boeing 787-8 with a 250-passenger capacity. Furthermore, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen, has indicated that Maldivian will acquire two wide-body aircraft within the next two months, enabling direct flights to seven new destinations.
Wide-body aircraft, with their greater passenger capacity and extended range, would significantly enhance Maldivian’s long-haul flight capabilities. The airline’s current fleet consists of 25 aircraft, including Airbus A320s, ATRs, Dash 8s, and Twin Otter seaplanes.
