Island Aviation Services Limited is extending an invitation to interested parties to submit proposals for the dry lease of one Airbus A330-220 aircraft, with a preferred lease period of five years, as detailed in the Request for Proposals (RFP).
This initiative is in alignment with the government’s decision to facilitate direct flights beyond the Maldives. Maldivian, the national carrier operated by Island Aviation, is actively seeking a dry lease for a specified Airbus A330-220.
The primary objective is to enhance direct flight services beyond the Maldives and expand international routes. The dry lease structure places all operational costs, including repairs, fuel, and crew expenses, on the lessee.
The proposal invitation is open on an international scale, and the anticipated delivery of the selected aircraft is in the second half of the year. Interested parties must adhere to the guidelines outlined in the RFP, with the submission deadline set for 4:00 p.m. on 24 January.
The decision to pursue a wide-body aircraft is a response to the government’s announcement of direct flights facilitated by the national airline. Mohamed Shaheeb, spokesperson for the President’s Office, revealed on 17 December that the Cabinet had sanctioned the commencement of direct flights to key tourist destinations. Plans include the swift procurement of two aircraft, with financial support provided by the finance ministry. China has been identified as a significant destination in this strategic move.
The selected wide-body aircraft, boasting a passenger capacity of up to 275, is poised to enable direct travel to distant destinations. Maldivian has previously employed Airbus aircraft for flights to China and South Africa, utilizing transit routes due to the absence of long-haul capable vessels.
As of now, Maldivian’s fleet comprises 14 vessels, including one Airbus A320 and two ATR aircraft. The remaining vessels are speedboats, with only Airbus A320s deployed for international travel.
