News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — MaldivianAero, the national airline of the Maldives, marked a significant milestone on Saturday with the arrival of its fifth ATR aircraft, greeted by a traditional water salute at Velana International Airport. The ceremony, featuring plumes of water arching over the newly arrived plane, underscored the airline’s ongoing efforts to expand its fleet to meet the surging demand of the nation’s tourism-driven economy.
The event, captured in a series of images shared by MaldivianAero on social media, showcased the aircraft’s touchdown, the ceremonial salute performed by airport fire tenders, and a warm welcome extended to the crew by airline officials and staff. The gathering included a symbolic exchange of flowers and a group photo with the aircraft, emblazoned with the airline’s distinctive blue and white livery, and the message “80 IAV” displayed prominently on the tarmac—a nod to a special celebration.
For MaldivianAero, the arrival of the new ATR aligns with its fleet expansion strategy, including one in January 2023.
Tourism, which accounts for a quarter of the Maldives’ gross domestic product and over 60 percent of its foreign exchange receipts, relies heavily on efficient air connectivity. The new aircraft is expected to bolster the airline’s capacity to serve the archipelago’s 26 atolls, supporting an industry that has driven a 265 percent increase in per capita GDP during the 1980s and a further 115 percent in the 1990s.
MaldivianAero’s expansion comes at a time when the Maldives continues to solidify its position as a premier global destination, despite challenges posed by climate change and economic dependencies. The airline’s latest addition is a testament to the nation’s commitment to sustaining its economic growth, with officials expressing optimism about enhanced service and connectivity in the region.
