Maldivian to sell ageing Dash-8 aircraft ahead of ATR shift

Maldivian has decided to sell its ageing Dash-8 aircraft as the flag carrier attempts to shift to an all-ATR fleet.

Deputy Managing Director of Maldivian Aishath Jeniffer told Atoll Times on Sunday that efforts are underway to sell Maldivian's DCHC-8 (commonly known as Dash-8) aircraft, which are already out of production. 

"Dash-8 series 200 and 300 aircraft are no longer manufactured. That's why it's so difficult to get spare parts now," Jeniffer said.

"The aircraft on [Maldivian's] fleet have been in existence for more than 20 years. It's been a long time since the repairs of the aircraft were delayed due to the difficulty in obtaining the spare, and the maintenance cost of the aircraft has increased."

Maldivian has to charter aircraft from two private airlines, Manta Air and Villa Air when any of its Dash-8 aircraft are out of service for maintenance. 

Meanwhile, Maldivian has decided to shift its entire fleet to French-made ATR aircraft. The two companies signed an agreement in January.

Maldivian has announced the sale of Dash-8 aircraft:

Jeniffer said that the company will bring in three ATR aircraft in December. She said that the seating capacity of the aircraft will also be increased.