Maldivian Seeks Expressions of Interest for Finance Lease of Two ATR 42-600 Aircraft

Maldivian has announced an invitation for Expressions of Interest (EOI) to finance lease two ATR 42-600 aircraft. The move is part of the airline’s ongoing fleet renewal program, which is gradually replacing its Dash 8 fleet with ATR turboprops.

The national carrier currently operates a mixed ATR fleet consisting of two ATR 72-600s and three ATR 42-600s. These aircraft were introduced beginning in 2023 as part of a phased transition away from the Dash 8 series, which had formed the backbone of Maldivian’s domestic operations for decades. The airline has publicly stated its intention to complete the transition to ATRs by 2027, citing improved reliability, lower maintenance costs, and better alignment with operational needs across the Maldives’ short-runway airports.

The ATR 42-600 is particularly suited to Maldivian’s domestic network, offering short-field performance and efficient operations on high-frequency inter-island routes. The addition of two more ATR 42-600s under finance lease will expand the fleet and accelerate the retirement of Dash 8 aircraft still in service.

The EOI process invites qualified lessors to submit proposals detailing financial terms and leasing arrangements. Once finalized, the acquisition will mark another step in Maldivian’s transition toward a fully ATR-operated domestic fleet.