Taiwan Offers Loan to Air Marshall Islands for New Aircraft
Taiwan has pledged a preferential loan to Air Marshall Islands (CWM) to support its aircraft procurement plans. The announcement was made by Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te during a speech to the Marshallese Legislature on December 3 as part of his state visit.
President Lai emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to aiding the Marshall Islands and its national carrier. “Taiwan will gladly provide the Marshall Islands with a preferential loan for Air Marshall Islands to procure new aircraft,” Lai said, acknowledging the airline’s challenges in maintaining its fleet.
Air Marshall Islands has already ordered two 19-seat Cessna 408 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in December 2025. Additionally, the airline plans to acquire a Dornier Do228 in early 2024. As the only scheduled passenger carrier in the mid-Pacific nation, the airline plays a vital role in connecting the Marshall Islands’ remote islands.
While specific details of the loan were not disclosed, the offer was warmly received by the 33-member legislature. The financial support is expected to enhance the airline’s operational capacity and service reliability.
President Lai’s visit to the Marshall Islands is part of a broader diplomatic tour that includes stops in Hawaii, Tuvalu, Palau, and Guam. This gesture underscores Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening ties with its Pacific allies while addressing critical infrastructure needs in the region.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com