The national airline, Maldivian, has added its fifth ATR aircraft to its domestic fleet, marking a significant step in enhancing inter-island connectivity.

The new aircraft arrived at Velana International Airport and was officially welcomed by Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim, along with other senior government and airline officials.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Minister Thoriq expressed optimism that the new addition would improve the ease and convenience of domestic travel for both locals and tourists.

The aircraft, arriving from France, made transit stops in Greece, Egypt, and Oman before landing in the Maldives. Captains Abdulla Nafiz and Ali Nanish piloted the flight, with Ibrahim Waiz Mohamed onboard as the aircraft engineer.

The latest ATR aircraft has a seating capacity of 42 passengers. Maldivian's fleet also includes a larger ATR model that can accommodate 70 passengers.

This transition to ATRs comes after the airline phased out its older Dash aircraft, aiming to reduce maintenance and operational costs. The move follows the initial agreement signed on January 18, 2022, to introduce three ATR aircraft to the country’s aviation sector.