Air Equator was a Maldivian airline headquartered in Gan, operating flights that connected the southernmost island to other key destinations within the country. Based at Gan International Airport, the airline was founded in 2003 and officially received its Air Operator Certificate from the Maldives Civil Aviation Department on 10 October 2004. However, after a brief period of service, Air Equator ceased operations in August 2005.

 

• 1 Fairchild F-27 aircraft ​

​

---------------------​

​

• Gan 

• Hanimaadhoo 

• Kaadedhdhoo 

• Malé

​​

Air Equator commenced operations on 15 October 2004, offering flights between Gan and the capital, Malé. The airline was initially owned by A. Faiz and A. Murthy, who held a 60% stake, while Ziaf Enterprises Maldives owned the remaining 40%. Later, the majority shares were acquired by SPA Aviation of Sri Lanka.

​

In December 2004, the airline's operations were impacted by the Asian tsunami, but it contributed to relief efforts by transporting essential supplies to affected islands.

The airline was chartered to transport members of the media and press accompanying the Turkish Prime Minister during his visit to the Maldives to assess the tsunami damage. Operations were gradually reduced, with all flights discontinued in May 2005. Ultimately, the airline ceased operations in August 2005 due to financial and administrative disputes between SPA Aviation and A. Faiz.

​

Capt. Anup Murthy served as the General Manager and CEO of the company and was the Maldives Civil Aviation Department-approved Accountable Manager from its inception. Although SPA Aviation had intentions of reviving the airline, its efforts were unsuccessful as the necessary funding did not materialize, as reported in early 2006.