National airline Maldivian placed an order for two ATR 72-600 series and one ATR 42-600 series turboprop aircraft earlier this year in January.
The total acquisition cost of these aircraft is reportedly USD 60 million (MVR 925 million) and Maldivian is arranging finance through a loan.
These 3 aircraft were to initially join the fleet in October this year however due to manufacturing delays the aircraft are expected to arrive in December.
According to the information received to Aviators Maldives; Plane manufacturer ATR has provided additional ATRs with the crew for temporary operations to Maldivian until all new aircraft arrive.
The first of the aircraft that arrived last night to Velana International Airport which is an ATR 72-500 operated by Swiftair.
Swiftair is a Spanish carrier that provides scheduled and charter passenger and cargo services. The carrier has a mixed fleet with aircraft operating for United Nations and DHL.
According to Maldivian Managing Director Mohamed Mihad; the airline will be adding 3 more ATR aircraft by the end of 2023 for a total of 6 ATRs.
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