The National airline Maldivian has introduced a Beechcraft King Air 360 aircraft for luxury flights, with the aim of matching the service standards of the country’s luxury resorts.
The brand-new aircraft has arrived in the Maldives as part of the airline’s fleet modernisation programme, with preparations under way to begin services today. Maldivian will operate its first luxury service using this aircraft type in partnership with Nilaa Corals.
Speaking as chief guest at the ceremony marking the aircraft’s addition, Ahmed Shafeeu, State Minister of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development and Chairman of Island Aviation Services Limited, which operates Maldivian, outlined the ambition behind the service.
He described the Maldives as an unrivalled luxury tourism destination and emphasised that its transport system should reflect those standards. Considerable work was under way towards that goal, he explained, with the airline seeking to provide service comparable to luxury resorts while building the trust of tourism stakeholders and passengers.
The Chairman noted that the partnership with Nilaa Corals would also allow other resorts, businesses and customers to access the service. He outlined plans for private charters across the Maldives and assured resorts and industry stakeholders that the airline would continue working to expand the offering.
Addressing the demand for these services, Island Aviation Services Limited Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem explained that Maldivian regularly receives requests for dedicated transfers for luxury travellers arriving at night, when seaplane services are unavailable. He highlighted the importance of introducing a service to meet that continuing demand.
Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem described tourism as the backbone of the Maldivian economy and noted that, as the sector develops, Maldivian remains one of the leading companies transporting tourists between destinations across the country. He emphasised the airline’s ongoing contribution to tourism development, explaining that the aircraft would help meet the needs of visitors and industry stakeholders while playing an important role in transfers to luxury resorts.
The service will also be available to businesses throughout the Maldives, individuals and groups. Deputy Managing Director Ali Saleem encouraged resorts, companies, clubs and associations to use the luxury offering, describing their use of it as a source of pride and honour for both the country and its national airline.
With seating for eight passengers, the aircraft caters specifically to luxury tourism and business travel. Maldivian plans to use it primarily for dedicated air transfers for Nilaa Coral Island, alongside charter flights to destinations across the country.
The twin-engine turboprop is popular internationally for luxury and charter flights and is known for its speed, reliability, and comfortable cabin. Maldivian highlighted its appealing interior and cool cabin, noting that it could reach destinations faster than ATR aircraft.
Passengers will be able to fly directly to their destinations at their preferred times, reducing transit waits and making journeys more convenient, according to the airline. Maldivian described the aircraft’s introduction as an important step in expanding its services.
Alongside its domestic operations, Maldivian operates international flights to countries including Australia, Bangladesh, India and China. The airline reports an operating fleet of 25 aircraft, comprising one Airbus A330-200, one Airbus A320, five ATR aircraft, seven Dash 8 aircraft and 11 DHC-6 Twin Otters used for seaplane services.