In alignment with the presidential pledge to introduce wide-body operations to the national carrier, Maldivian Airlines has signed an agreement with TrueNoord leasing company for the incorporation of an Airbus A330-200 aircraft.
The ceremony, attended by Maldivian’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Iyas, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Honourable Minister Mohamed Ameen, and key representatives from both companies, signifies the commencement of a fruitful partnership. Introducing the A330-200 to Maldivian’s fleet will enhance the airline’s operational capabilities, enabling it to explore new and exciting destinations while offering passengers an elevated travel experience.
“This agreement with TrueNoord is a testament to Maldivian’s unwavering dedication to growth and innovation,” said Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian. “The A330 will be instrumental in expanding our international network, creating new opportunities for regional tourism and trade.”
Maldivian also announced an enhancement in its distribution network through a strategic partnership with Amadeus Global Distribution System (Amadeus GDS). This collaboration marks a crucial step in the company’s ongoing commitment to improving travel accessibility and convenience for their valued travel trade partners and customers.
Effective July 25th, 2024, Maldivian has joined the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) in the Indian market, alongside Amadeus GDS. This participation allows certain IATA-accredited BSP travel agents in India to effortlessly issue e-tickets for Maldivian flights through Amadeus GDS using the Q2-986 ticket plate. Sales for all IATA-accredited BSP travel agents will be opened from August 14th, 2024.
Maldivian’s Acting Chief Commercial Officer, Ismail Amrah Umar, said “By expanding Maldivian’s distribution capabilities with Amadeus GDS and IATA’s BSP, we are creating exciting and convenient opportunities for our valued partners and customers to connect and travel seamlessly within our growing route network. These strategic collaborations will enhance our ability to offer a wider range of travel options, and we are excited about the future opportunities it will bring for both our business and our customers.”
Maldivian operates 13 non-stop weekly flights to three Indian destinations from its hub airport at Velana International Airport (MLE) in the Maldives. These include four weekly flights to Cochin (COK), five to Thiruvananthapuram (TRV), and two to Bengaluru (BLR) on A320 aircraft. Additionally, two weekly flights connect Hanimaadhoo International Airport (HAQ) to TRV on a Dash8-300 aircraft.
Maldivian offers a full-service product on these routes, and opening sales on GDS with participation in the Indian BSP facilitates more convenient distribution for travelers between the countries. Agents will also have access to Maldivian’s extensive domestic network comprising 17 airports, making it convenient to offer single travel itineraries ranging from luxury resorts to affordable holidays in the Maldives.
Maldivian has established interline partnerships with Emirates and Etihad Airways, with additional international airline partnerships planned for the coming quarters.
