Following the government's decision to initiate direct flights to international destinations, Maldivian has announced plans to acquire a wide-body aircraft.
The airline's operator, Island Aviation, revealed in a statement that it is seeking an Airbus A330-220 on a five-year dry lease basis.
Maldivian said that this move is to enhance the airline's existing direct flights outside of the Maldives and expand its international operations.
Under a dry lease arrangement, the lessee takes on all operational costs, including repairs, fuel, and crew expenses.
The bid invitation was also extended to foreign bidders, and the aircraft is expected to be delivered in the second half of next year at the latest.
The deadline for bid submission is January 24 at 4:00 p.m.
Island Aviation initiated the search for a wide-body aircraft following the government's announcement of direct flights out of the Maldives through Maldivian Airlines.
On December 17, Presidential Spokesperson Mohamed Shaheeb said that the Cabinet had decided to commence direct flights to tourist source markets to boost tourism. He added that efforts to bring two aircraft to Island Aviation would commence soon, with the Ministry of Finance securing the necessary funds and arrangements for financing facilities for Island Aviation.
Shaheeb also highlighted that the government had prioritized China as a top destination.
Wide-body aircraft can carry up to 275 passengers, making them suitable for direct flights to distant destinations. While Maldivian Airlines previously operated flights to China and South Africa using Airbus, these were limited to short trips or transit flights to other destinations.
The airline currently operates a fleet of 14 aircraft, including one Airbus A320 and two ATRs, with the remaining being Dash brand aircraft. Currently, only the Airbus A320 is utilized for international travel.​