Maldivian Airlines becomes a new A320 operator

Modern, best selling A320 Family continues to expand its operator base

Maldivian Airlines, the national carrier of the Maldives has become a new operator of Airbus single aisle aircraft, following the first commercial flight of an A320 on the inaugural flight from Male to Chennai. The aircraft, operated under a leasing agreement, is the first A320 Maldivian will fly to destinations in the Indian sub-continent.

The aircraft, which is powered by CFM56 engines, was previously handed over at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, Maldives, in October 2012. Its interior has been specifically modified to accommodate a three-class configuration: 14 business, 18 premium and 120 economy seats.

“This entry into service of our first A320 is a great day for Maldivian and our passengers.  This signifies the increasing expansion of Maldivian in the region,” commented Abdul Haris, Managing Director of Maldivian. “We will start our A320 operations with direct flights to Mumbai, Chennai and Dhaka, much-anticipated routes for our customers.”

“We are delighted to welcome Maldivian as the latest operator of our best selling A320 Family,” said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers. “Its best-in-class fuel consumption and impeccable eco-efficient credentials make it the ideal match for the Maldives, an island nation which sets high standards for environmental responsibility.”

The A320 Family is recognized as the benchmark single-aisle aircraft family. The aircraft feature the latest technology available today, the widest and most comfortable cabin, and the highest degree of operational commonality. With 99.8% reliability and extended servicing intervals, the A320 Family has the lowest operating costs of any single-aisle aircraft today. More than 5,300 A320 Family aircraft are in airline operation around the world today with over 370 customers and operators. Uniquely, the A320 Family offers a containerized cargo system, which is compatible with the world-wide standard wide-body system.