Island Aviation Services Limited (IASL), the operator of the national airline Maldivian, has announced plans to acquire two additional ATR aircraft and is currently seeking financing parties for the procurement.

In an announcement made yesterday, IASL specified that the company intends to bring in two ATR 42-600 aircraft. According to the schedule, the first aircraft is expected to be delivered in August of this year, while the second is slated for delivery in October 2027.

Interested parties are invited to submit their proposals by 11:59 PM on the 12th of this month.

Maldivian currently operates five ATR aircraft in its fleet. The fifth aircraft was added in June of last year. The airline first introduced ATR aircraft to its operations in 2023, acquiring three units that same year.

Compared to the Dash-8 aircraft currently used by Maldivian, ATR aircraft offer significantly lower operating costs. Additionally, ATRs are known for their fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance expenses.