Maldivian Awarded National Flag Carrier Status

Maldives Promotion House – Maldivian, the airline division of Island Aviation Services Ltd is awarded the national flag carrier of Maldives. At a special ceremony Transport Minister, Dr. Ahmed Shamheed presented ‘The National Carrier Status” certificate to the Island Aviation Services Ltd’s Chairman Bandhu Ibrahim Saleem.

Dr. Shamheed said ‘This  is the rebirth of national airline after discontinuation of few years” he added “This is a historic day for Maldivian aviation and with new aircraft and new destinations Island Aviation will fulfill our dreams of a flag carrier”

Speaking at the ceremony Bandhu Ibrahim Saleem said “We proudly accept flag carrier status. It’s a special privilege for us and we will honor government’s wishes”.  He noted in the next three years aviation sector in Maldives will see significant growth creating number of job opportunities. He pointed out that two new airports are scheduled to open this year.

According to Bandhu national flag carrier was awarded after considering their capabilities and future expansion plans. Previously they were holding ‘Designated Airline Status”.

Earlier IAS has announced that they have acquired a Airbus A320 to start flights to new destinations from November.

State owned Island Aviation Services Ltd was incorporated in the year 2000 after previous national flag carrier Air Maldives declared bankruptcy.