Maldivian, the flag carrier of the Maldives, has taken delivery of its first ATR 72 aircraft.
The new aircraft is the first of three ATRs on order by Maldivian. It has firm orders for two ATR 72-600 and one ATR 42-600.
The ATR-600 has about 70 seats, depending on operator choice.
Having a mixed fleet of ATR 72 and 42 aircraft will also provide Maldivian with maximum flexibility and the capacity to constantly adjust to passenger demand.
The latest generation turboprops will replace some of the airline’s ageing models. They offer less fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, operating costs, and improved passenger comfort.
The ATRs have brand new PW127XT engines offers 20% lower maintenance costs and a 3% reduction in fuel consumption compared to ATR’s previous generation engine.
This all means the brand new aircraft will contribute to offer local communities and tourists with further affordable and sustainable connectivity.
Mohamed Mihad, Managing Director of Maldivian:
“Operating in an environment like the Maldives is a matter of offering quick access to essential services to local communities, contributing to the archipelago’s economic development, boosting tourism – and all of this with sustainability at heart.
” When flying onboard our latest generation ATR turboprops, our passengers will benefit from the best of both worlds: the convenience and comfort of air travel and the guarantee of the lowest emission regional aircraft on the market.”
ATR Chief Executive Officer Nathalie Tarnaud Laude:
“ATR aircraft have a proven track record in terms of connecting islands affordably and sustainably in many regions of the world.
“We will be supporting Maldivian in their sustainable development throughout the years with the latest technology to further enhance their operations whilst fulfilling their sustainability pledges.
” We are as much committed as Maldivian in contributing to the industry’s net-zero carbon emissions 2050 target.”
ATR released a video showing the aircraft in its rather nice livery:
About Maldivian
Maldivian is the national airline of the Maldives. It was established in 2000 and currently operates international flights in addition to inter-island services. It is 100% owned by the Government of Maldives.
Routes: Maldivian currently operates to 17 destinations in the Maldives and to India, Bangladesh, Thailand and China from its main hub at Velana International Airport (MLE).
Fleet: Its current fleet consists of 22 aircraft:
- 1 Airbus A320
- 2 Dash-8 Q200s
- 8 Dash-8 Q300s
- 11 DHC-6-300 Twin Otter aircraft
Alliance: None
N.B. Image credit: ATR
