Diamonds Athuruga Beach & Water Resorts has announced the hiring of Gilbert Steiner as Executive Assistant Manager.

Two ATR 72-600s took off from Toulouse, France today for the ferry journey to the Maldives. The two planes are planned to arrive at Velana International Airport on January 4, 2023.

These three planes were supposed to enter the fleet in October 2022, however they were delayed owing to production concerns.

In order to satisfy increased operating demand over the new year season, Maldivian briefly leased an ATR 72-500 operated by Swiftair.

The three airplanes cost a total of USD 60 million (MVR 925 million), which was apparently paid for using a loan.

According to Maldivian Managing Director Mohamed Mihad, the airline would acquire three additional ATR aircraft by the end of 2023, bringing the total number of ATRs to six.