National Airline of Maldives, Maldivian has revealed plans to start single engine Kodiak 100 operations with Setouchi Holdings. Japanese-owned aircraft manufacturer, Quest Aircraft Company announced plans to form a joint venture between parent company Setouchi Holding and Island Aviation Services Limited.
The joint venture company, Sky Atoll Private Limited has placed an initial order of four Kodiak 100s aircrafts to commence the seaplane operations. CEO of Quest Aircraft Company Rob Wells stated that after a rigorous operational evaluation in the Maldives, they have deemed Kodiak as one of the ideal aircrafts for Maldives, with its robust construction and short field performance.
This would be the first time a single-engine float operation is being utilised in the Maldives. Seaplanes are the primary mode of transport for tourists to travel between resorts and Velana International Airport.