Maldivian introduces A330 to embark on long-haul services

Indian Ocean carrier Maldivian is embarking on widebody operations after introducing an Airbus A330-200 to its fleet The carrier states that the twinjet represents a “significant expansion” for the airline, 25 years after it emerged with a small fleet of two aircraft. Maldivian’s A330 – fitted with 264 seats – is configured with three classes, including 18 in the business cabin and 36 in premium-economy. It was formerly operated by carriers including KLM. Powered by GE Aerospace CF6 engines, the aircraft (8Q-IAB) was flown from Colombo to the Maldives capital, Male, on 6 January. The carrier says the jet will allow it to open services to China, with flights to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. “We are now poised to expand our international flight capacity, open new routes, and connect the Maldives to long-haul destinations,” says Ibrahim Iyas, managing director of Island Aviation Services, the company which runs the airline.<br/>