Maldivian Airlines has officially opened ticket sales for its new A330-200  wide-body aircraft, marking a significant step in the airline’s expansion. 

The first flight to China will depart for Chengdu on January 22, 2025, with roundtrip tickets available for USD 688 (MVR 10,610).

Additionally, flights to Beijing and Shanghai are set to follow, with roundtrip tickets to Beijing priced at USD 788 (MVR 12,151) and to Shanghai at USD 777 (MVR 11,981). The Beijing route will begin on January 24, while services to Shanghai will start on January 27.

The new A330-200 features 264 seats across three classes: 18 in business class, 36 in premium economy, and 210 in economy. It offers a 40 kg baggage allowance per passenger and boasts a 10-tonne cargo capacity. With a non-stop flying range of up to 10 hours, the aircraft is well-equipped to handle long-haul flights to China.

With the introduction of the new aircraft, Maldives is expected to welcome an additional 40,000 Chinese tourists annually according to Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal in a state media interview.

Island Aviation Services Limited, which operates Maldivian Airlines, has steadily grown its fleet since its establishment in 2000. With the addition of the A330, the airline now operates 25 aircraft and serves 29 destinations.