Maldivian, the national carrier of the Maldives, has commenced wide-body aircraft operations with the launch of an Airbus A330-200. The introduction of wide-body aircraft fulfills a key presidential pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who inaugurated the operations on Monday.

During the ceremony, President Muizzu announced that a second wide-body aircraft would join the fleet in October 2025, describing the move as part of his broader vision for the nation’s development. He emphasized that this milestone marks "just the beginning" of transformative changes in the country’s aviation sector.

The Airbus A330-200, equipped with 264 seats, will initially serve routes to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu, offering passengers a choice of business, premium economy, and economy class seating.

President Muizzu first proposed introducing wide-body aircraft to the national carrier on December 17, 2023, following consultations with his Cabinet. The decision was part of a strategic effort to boost the country’s tourism industry by enabling direct flights from key international markets.

The initiative underscores the Administration’s commitment to expanding air connectivity, enhancing the Maldives' appeal as a global travel destination, and supporting economic growth through improved infrastructure and services in the aviation sector.