Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL), operator of the Maldives’ national airline, Maldivian, has announced an extension to the proposal submission deadline for leasing an Airbus A330-200 aircraft. Interested parties now have until 14 March 2025, 23:59hrs Maldives time, to submit their proposals, according to the latest update issued by IASL.
The Request for Proposal (RFP), initially released on 6 February 2025, seeks eligible respondents to supply one Airbus A330-200 aircraft on an operating lease basis, preferably for a five-year period. Maldivian aims to utilise this aircraft to expand its international presence, particularly by introducing non-stop, long-haul routes connecting Velana International Airport (MLE) with key international markets.
Currently, the national carrier operates a diverse fleet comprising 26 aircraft, including seaplanes, ATRs, Dash-8s, Airbus A320, and A330 models. This significant expansion from its initial fleet of just two aircraft underscores Maldivian’s ambitions to enhance connectivity to one of the world’s most renowned holiday destinations.
According to the detailed RFP documentation, the aircraft is expected for delivery in the third quarter of 2025, though later deliveries may still be considered. IASL has outlined specific criteria for evaluating proposals, covering technical capabilities, financial offers, and preferred special conditions such as engine maintenance programmes, training support, and lease terms.
Interested parties eligible to respond to this RFP include aircraft owners, airlines, lessors, lease servicers, commercial banks, financial institutions, or entities managed by or wholly owned by any of these categories. Proposals from brokers or intermediaries outside these categories will not be accepted.
Submission guidelines require all proposals to be sent electronically in password-protected PDF format to specified email addresses provided by IASL, accompanied by detailed technical, financial, and supporting documents.
The revised proposal submission deadline of 14 March 2025 will be followed by a password submission deadline on 15 March 2025. The selected respondent is expected to be announced by 3 April 2025.
The acquisition of an additional Airbus A330-200 reflects Maldivian’s strategic initiative to further cement the Maldives’ position on the global tourism map, boosting passenger capacity on key international routes and enhancing service delivery.
