Maldivian to Receive First A330-200 for International Expansion

Maldivian (Q2, Malé), the state-owned airline of the Maldives, is set to add its first widebody aircraft, an Airbus A330-200, in January 2025. Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen confirmed the aircraft, registered as 9H-PAX, is currently being painted at Singapore Changi Airport and will arrive in Malé on January 7, 2025. The 264-seat aircraft is scheduled to begin operations on January 17, but the airline has not yet disclosed its initial routes. Potential destinations include Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, several European cities, and Johannesburg, as part of the government’s efforts to enhance connectivity and diversify tourism.

The 14-year-old aircraft previously operated for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Airhub Airlines and is being leased from TrueNoord. Its addition marks Maldivian’s entry into the long-haul market, aligning with the government’s strategy to attract a broader range of tourists beyond the luxury market.

While the expansion is a significant milestone, Maldivian faces financial challenges. Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) reported the airline owes MVR1.1 billion (USD72.6 million) in debts for services such as fuel and ground handling. MACL’s Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed noted that extending credit to state-owned companies has strained the airport operator’s finances, requiring external funding. Despite these challenges, the introduction of the A330-200 represents Maldivian’s ambition to boost international operations and support the Maldives’ growing tourism sector.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com