The national airline of the Maldives Maldivian, and the world number one regional aircraft manufacturer ATR, have signed a firm order for two ATR 42-600. These highly-efficient new aircraft will join the airline existing regional fleet, including two ATR 72-600 and one ATR 42-600, to replace older generation turboprops.

With these modern aircraft, powered by extra efficient PW127XT engines and featuring a spacious and appealing cabin, Maldivian will offer further reliable and affordable connectivity to the archipelago’s communities and businesses, contributing to the Maldives’ economic dynamism while lowering emissions.

Mohamed Mihad, Managing Director of Maldivian, stated: "We introduced our first two ATR aircraft into our fleet in January 2023, and our passengers already praise the comfort and modernity of their cabin, as well as the reliability of the services we are providing. As the benchmark in regional aviation, both in terms of financial efficiency and CO₂ emissions, the ATR -600 series represents a valuable asset for us to achieve responsible growth while providing quick access to essential services and preserving destinations for the archipelago's residents and tourists."

“To modernise its fleet and sustain the vital connections it is offering its communities, Maldivian has, yet again, chosen to invest in the lowest-emission regional aircraft on the market and the proven benchmark in terms of operating economics. Having a mixed fleet of both ATR 42-600 and 72-600 will offer Maldivian flexibility, reliability, comfort, and profitability on the smallest routes. Maldivian’s passengers will benefit from state-of-the-art aircraft, providing responsible and affordable connectivity for many years to come” added Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, Chief Executive Officer of ATR.