Maldivian’s acquisition of two new DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft will pave the way for the airline to introduce night-time seaplane operations, Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem has said.
Speaking exclusively to PSM News, Saleem said the aircraft, which are being purchased from a Canadian manufacturer, are equipped with the latest technology and will be capable of both night navigation and amphibious operations.
Seaplane services remain a major source of revenue for Maldivian, which currently operates a fleet of 11 seaplanes and is seeking to further expand its fleet. The airline provides seaplane services to resorts as well as several islands and continues to receive numerous requests to introduce services to additional destinations.
As part of its fleet expansion plans, Maldivian signed an agreement with a Canadian company on August 11 to purchase the two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft.
Saleem explained that the seaplanes currently operating in the Maldives lack the equipment necessary to conduct night flights. The newly acquired aircraft, however, will be fitted with the technology required to operate safely at night, significantly expanding the airline’s operational capabilities and efficiency.
The new aircraft will also be capable of operating on wheels, in addition to functioning as seaplanes. This dual capability is expected to provide greater flexibility for Maldivian’s domestic operations.
Maldivian connected four southern atolls by air in February this year, and the airline said the ability to operate the new aircraft using wheel-based landing gear will bring greater convenience and represent a major advancement in its services.
With the addition of the two modern aircraft, Maldivian expects to increase its operational capacity while improving connectivity and expanding the range of services it can offer across the country.
