While the tourism sector of Maldives is embarking on achieving major milestones with the development of several domestic airports, it is as important to enhance the seaplane operation in the country as seaplane operations in Maldives plays a major role in transporting tourists to their desired destinations or resorts across the country.
The demand for seaplane services has been increasing with the increase in tourist arrivals The national airline, Maldivian, began its seaplane operations in 2014 with just two seaplanes. However, four years later, Maldivian has increased its fleet to 11. With the increase in its fleet, Maldivian operates seaplanes to 13 destinations in Maldives.
Island Aviation Services Limited, which manages the national airline, attaches high importance to portraying the natural beauty to its customers. In this regard, upon request, Island Aviation provides chartered flights, photo flights as well as VIP flights in addition to its scheduled services. Moreover, the company aims to enhance its services to newly developed and upcoming sectors with the development of more domestic airports.
While the largest seaplane base in the world is currently operated in Maldives, the new seaplane terminal, developed in Velana International Airport (VIA) would provide more opportunities for the company to further enhance its services. Maldivian has exerted on major efforts to enhance its seaplane fleet and the services provided.
A service which commenced with just two seaplanes has seen huge improvements in its services during the past four years.