Maldivian retires Dash 8, returns aircraft to manufacturer

As part of its ongoing fleet modernization program, national airline Maldivian has officially retired one of its long-serving Dash 8 aircraft.

According to Maldivian, the retired aircraft is a DHC-8-300, registered as 8Q-IAS (MSN 546).

Following an open Request for Proposals (RFP) process, the aircraft departed for Canada on Thursday. Maldivian described the move as a significant milestone in the airline's history and an important step towards developing a more modern and sustainable fleet.

The aircraft served a key role in domestic air transportation across the Maldives for more than 14 years. During its service, it accumulated over 29,000 flight hours and completed more than 37,000 flight cycles.

The airline noted that the aircraft's journey to Canada marks its return to its original manufacturer, De Havilland Canada, 26 years after it was first built.

Maldivian launched its fleet renewal program in 2022 with the aim of gradually retiring its ageing Dash 8 aircraft and replacing them with modern ATR aircraft.

Speaking with PSM News, Maldivian’s Managing Director Ibrahim Iyas explained that maintenance costs for the Dash 8 fleet have increased significantly since production of the aircraft ceased around 2009 or 2010. He added that the Dash 8 aircraft currently in operation are more than 25 years old.

He said the transition to an ATR fleet is a strategic decision aimed at ensuring the airline's long-term sustainability, adding that the newer aircraft will enable the company to better meet the growing demand for domestic air travel.

Maldivian stated that the ATR aircraft offer greater passenger comfort, improved fuel efficiency and enhanced environmental performance compared with the Dash 8 fleet. The airline added that the transition is expected to improve operational reliability while reducing overhead costs, with the long-term goal of operating an entirely modern ATR fleet for domestic services.

Maldivian currently operates five ATR aircraft and has two additional aircraft on order. The first is expected to be delivered later this year, while the second is scheduled to arrive by the end of next year.