Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL) has begun seeking a new long-range aircraft for the national airline, Maldivian. The airline is seeking an aircraft for an eight-year lease period with economy class seats and at least 12 business class seats.
The national carrier began seeking parties willing to lease an aircraft to replace its largest aircraft which is nearing the end of its lease period. IASL stated the Airbus A321 was rented in 2015 and is being released as the lease expires due to its age and high maintenance fee.
Deputy Managing Director of IASL Aishath Jennifer said the aim is to bring in a new aircraft for the first quarter of 2023 in order to use it for destinations in Europe and allow Maldivian to remain competitive. She noted that the new aircraft would not have to make technical stops during travel to China.
Maldivian currently has 23 aircraft in its fleet and operates in international sectors including Trivandrum and Cochin in India and Dhaka in Bangladesh.