Maldivian Orders Two ATR Aircraft to Replace Ageing Dash-8 Fleet

The national carrier, Maldivian, has ordered two additional ATR aircraft as part of a strategic initiative to phase out its ageing Dash-8 fleet. Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas announced that the first new aircraft is expected to arrive by late this year, with the second following by late next year. The transition is driven by the increasing operational burden of the Dash-8 models, which have serviced the Maldives' domestic routes since 2008. Iyas explained that these aircraft have exceeded a 25-year operational lifespan, making maintenance both difficult and expensive. Because production of the Dash-8 model ceased around 2010, sourcing parts and conducting repairs has become a significant financial drain on the airline. This modernisation project, launched in 2022, marks a shift toward a more sustainable, ATR-dominated fleet. The company currently operates five ATR aircraft. Notably, the most recent addition to the fleet represents the first brand-new aircraft ever purchased in the history of the company, as previous acquisitions were limited to pre-owned planes. Maldivian currently manages a diverse fleet of 27 aircraft, comprising one wide-body Airbus A330, one narrow-body Airbus A320, five ATRs, nine Dash-8s, and 11 Dash-6 Twin Otters. The goal is to reduce the number of Dash-8s to lower overhead costs and improve reliability across domestic connections. Beyond the domestic fleet renewal, the government is focusing on expanding the nation's international aviation reach. In line with the pledges made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Island Aviation Services Limited is working to procure an additional wide-body aircraft, which is expected to be integrated into the fleet by the end of this year.