Maldivian Seeks A319 or A320 Lease, Calls for Expressions of Interest

Maldivian, operated by Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL), is actively seeking to lease either an Airbus A319-100 or an A320-200. The airline, based in Malé, has issued a call for expressions of interest (EOI) from aircraft lessors, with a submission deadline set for May 29, 2024. The successful lessor is expected to deliver the aircraft by September 2024, as outlined in a recent announcement in the Maldives Government Gazette dated May 13.

Maldivian is giving preference to lessors who can provide comprehensive support during the lease term. This includes the provision of replacement or spare engines without additional charges, except for costs associated with engine performance restoration and life-limited parts (LLP) replacement. Additionally, the airline is looking for an aircraft that arrives fully equipped with a complete galley, painted in Maldivian’s livery, and clear of any major maintenance events from the date of delivery.

For the A320-200, Maldivian requires a configuration of at least 180 seats, while the A319-100 should have a capacity of at least 150 seats. Preference will also be given to aircraft that have at least 5,000 cycles remaining on each engine LLP until discard.

The state-owned carrier, established in 2020, currently operates a diverse fleet of 25 aircraft, which includes models ranging from the A320-200 to various configurations of ATRs and De Havilland Canada aircraft. Maldivian serves 22 airports across four countries and has been in an expansion phase, recently adding ATR aircraft and discussing plans to acquire widebodies for new long-haul routes later in the year.

Eligibility for submitting an EOI is limited to aircraft owners, lessors, airlines, commercial banks, financial institutions, or any entity directly or indirectly managed or wholly owned by such businesses. Aircraft brokers and other intermediaries are excluded from participating in this process.

Prospective lessors are required to provide comprehensive details about their organization, including audited financial statements for the past two years, or for newly established companies, a certified certificate of net worth. They must also furnish a substantial package of documents, records, and manuals prior to the delivery of the aircraft, and outline the minimum redelivery conditions.

This leasing initiative underscores Maldivian’s commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities and supporting its strategic growth objectives. The selection process is set to conclude by mid-June, with the airline planning to finalize its choice of lessor and prepare for the integration of the new aircraft into its fleet by the third quarter of 2024.