Island Aviation Services (IAS) has announced that the introduction of its wide-body Airbus A330 aircraft operations will bring an estimated 60,000 additional tourists to the country annually.

Speaking to local media, Deputy Managing Director of Maldivian Airlines, Ali Saleem, explained that the 264-seater aircraft is set to begin weekly flights to Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. He noted that this initiative is expected to significantly increase tourist arrivals to the Maldives, with an estimated 60,000 additional visitors annually.

Saleem emphasised the airline's existing role in supporting Maldives' tourism sector and noted that the addition of the wide-body A330 will further enhance its contribution. The aircraft’s ability to fly non-stop for up to 10 hours opens potential travel routes to Europe, Africa, and Australia, further broadening the Maldives' connectivity to key international markets.

Ismail Athif, IAS Technical Strategy Manager, provided additional details on the A330. The aircraft features 18 business class seats, 36 premium economy seats, and 210 economy seats, with a cargo capacity of 10 tonnes. Athif noted that the aircraft will facilitate smoother logistics for transporting goods between China and the Maldives.

Currently undergoing final modifications in Singapore, including adjustments to its bow, the aircraft is expected to arrive in Malé on 6 January.

IAS currently operates a fleet of 13 aircraft, including one Airbus A320 and four ATR aircraft, primarily used for international travel. The remainder of the fleet consists of domestic DASH aircraft.