By Malé, Maldives – The national flag carrier, Maldivian, has taken a historic step in the country’s aviation industry with the arrival of its latest addition, the Airbus A330, today. The wide-body aircraft is set to revolutionize the airline’s operations with its advanced features, enhanced capacity, and ability to undertake long-haul flights.
Maldivian has highlighted the Airbus A330’s advanced engineering as a key factor in ensuring safety and reliability. The aircraft complies with the latest international safety regulations and is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features that prioritize the safety of both passengers and crew.
With a seating capacity of 264 passengers across three cabin classes—economy, business, and premium—the Airbus A330 introduces a new level of comfort and sophistication to Maldivian’s fleet.
Maldivian’s Head of Flight Technical, Mohamed Zaid Assad, emphasized the aircraft’s capability for long-haul operations. Powered by two General Electric CF engines, the A330 is designed to travel up to 13,000 kilometers, making it an ideal choice for direct flights to distant destinations.
“Previously, we relied on narrow-body aircraft like the A320 or A321 for long-haul routes. Now, with the introduction of the wide-body A330, we can easily connect to major cities in Europe and China. For example, Europe is about 8,000 to 9,000 kilometers from the Maldives, and this aircraft can handle such distances effortlessly,” Zaid explained.
Maldivian has announced plans to deploy the Airbus A330 to three Chinese destinations—Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu—this month. The airline also envisions expanding its operations to key European cities in the near future, further strengthening Maldives’ connectivity with the world.
Zaid also praised the A330 for meeting the highest global aviation standards, stating, “This aircraft incorporates modern technology and equipment, offering the highest safety features in the industry.”
The introduction of the Airbus A330 is expected to significantly boost Maldives’ tourism and trade sectors. With enhanced capacity and greater reach, Maldivian is poised to play a pivotal role in expanding the nation’s global connections and supporting its economic growth.
The arrival of the Airbus A330 underscores Maldivian’s commitment to innovation and excellence, marking a proud moment in the evolution of the country’s aviation industry.