Maldivian Issues RFP to Lease Up to Two Airbus A220-300 Jetliners

National airline Maldivian has officially opened a Request for Proposals to lease up to two Airbus A220-300 aircraft as part of ongoing strategic efforts to modernize its fleet and strengthen international regional connectivity.

Island Aviation Services Limited, the operator of the flag carrier, launched the bidding process seeking long-term operating lease proposals spanning six to twelve years. Under the planned timeline, deliveries for the single-aisle regional jets are targeted for late 2027 and early 2028. Interested lessors, financial institutions, and aircraft owners have been given until late October to submit binding proposals for evaluation.

The introduction of the Airbus A220-300 model represents a pivotal step in bridging the carrier's operational gap between its short-haul domestic turboprop fleet and its larger narrowbody and widebody aircraft. Designed to seat up to 138 passengers in a dual-class cabin layout, the modern aircraft will feature inflight entertainment and onboard internet connectivity. The fleet addition is projected to reduce per-seat fuel burn and carbon emissions by roughly 25 percent compared to previous generation aircraft.

Aviation officials indicate that the new fuel-efficient jets will primarily service medium-haul routes connecting Malé to key destinations across South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, capitalizing on expanding passenger capacity following major developments at Velana International Airport.