Maldivian’s new seaplanes will enable the airline to operate night flights, Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem said in an exclusive interview with PSM News.
Seaplane services are a major source of revenue for Maldivian, which currently operates a fleet of 11 seaplanes and is working to expand the fleet. The airline currently provides seaplane services to resorts as well as several islands and continues to receive numerous requests to introduce the service.
As part of the fleet expansion, Maldivian signed an agreement with a Canadian company on 11 August to purchase two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft. Deputy Managing Director Saleem said the aircraft feature the latest technology and will enable Maldivian to operate seaplane flights at night.
Deputy Managing Director Saleem explained that aircraft currently used for seaplane operations in the Maldives do not have the equipment required for night flights. In contrast, the newly ordered aircraft will have the capability to operate at night.
In addition to operating as seaplanes, Deputy Managing Director Saleem said Maldivian will also be able to operate for land operations.
Maldivian connected four southern atolls by air in February this year. The airline said the ability to operate the new aircraft on a wheelbase will provide a major convenience and advancement to its operations.