Maldivian’s First Wide-Body Aircraft to Launch Operations with Inaugural Flight to Chengdu, China

Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen has confirmed that Maldives’ first wide-body aircraft, the Airbus A330, will commence scheduled operations on January 21, with its inaugural flight set to Chengdu, China.

Speaking on a state-run media program, the minister explained that while the aircraft arrived in the Maldives on January 5, administrative processes have delayed its immediate use. These include re-registering the aircraft in the Maldives, finalising civil aviation approvals, and conducting operating crew training.

“Two days ago, it was in a different country and re-registered in this country. The operating crew will also have training to be done on board, and certain things need to be completed administratively,” the minister stated.

Island Aviation, which operates the airline Maldivian, has reported that 90 percent of the required civil aviation permissions have already been obtained, with the remaining processes expected to be completed soon.

The Airbus A330, previously acquired by Indian Airlines, has a seating capacity of 264 and will cater to economy, business, and premium classes. The aircraft is expected to increase passenger capacity by 60,000 annually and will operate flights to three major cities in China—Shanghai, Chengdu, and Beijing—as well as destinations in Europe.

The introduction of the wide-body aircraft fulfils a key presidential pledge made by President Mohamed Muizzu to enhance the Maldivian airline’s capabilities.