Maldivian has invited proposals to acquire two new aircrafts, as the Maldives flagship carrier seeks to expand operations to neighbouring countries and to traditional source markets for the island nation’s multi-million dollar tourism industry.

The Request For Proposals (RFPs) issued at the end of last month are for the purchase of a DHC-8-300 aircraft and for the leasing of an Airbus A321.

The DHC-8-300 aircraft will be a 315 or 314 series capable of seating 50 passengers in a single class configuration. It should be no older than 15 years of age although older aircraft are still eligible though they are subject to an in-situ review. The aircraft should also be offered for purchase on or before June 1.

The Airbus A321 should have 194 Economy class seats and six Business class seats. It should be less than 10 years old.

Maldivian currently operates a fleet of two Dash8-200 series aircrafts, seven Dash8-300 series aircrafts, and an Airbus 320 and another Airbus 321 aircraft. The Dash aircrafts are primarily used for domestic operations while the two Airbus aircrafts service the airline’s international routes.